COMMERCIAL METALS Co (CMC)

ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

This Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations should be read in conjunction with our consolidated financial statements and the accompanying notes contained in this Annual Report.

OVERVIEW

CMC is an innovative solutions provider helping build a stronger, safer and more sustainable world. Through an extensive manufacturing network principally located in the U.S. and Central Europe, the Company offers products and technologies to meet the critical reinforcement needs of the global construction sector. CMC’s solutions support construction across a wide variety of applications, including infrastructure, non-residential, residential, industrial and energy generation and transmission. Our operations are conducted through three reportable segments: North America Steel Group, Europe Steel Group and the Emerging Businesses Group. See Part I, Item 1, Business, of this Annual Report for further information regarding our business and reportable segments.

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Key Performance Indicators

When evaluating our results for the period, we compare net sales, in the aggregate and for each of our reportable segments, in the current period to net sales in the corresponding period of the prior year. Specifically, for the North America Steel Group segment and the Europe Steel Group segment we focus on changes in average selling price per ton and tons shipped compared to the prior year period for each of our vertically integrated product categories as these are the two variables that typically have the greatest impact on our net sales for these reportable segments. Of the products evaluated based on changes in average selling price per ton and tons shipped within the North America Steel Group and Europe Steel Group segments, raw materials include ferrous and nonferrous scrap, steel products include rebar, merchant bar and other steel products, such as billets and wire rod, and downstream products include fabricated rebar, steel fence posts and wire mesh. The evaluations of average selling price per ton and tons shipped for downstream products exclude post-tension cable, which is not measured on a per ton basis.

Adjusted EBITDA is used by management to compare and evaluate the period-over-period underlying business operational performance of our reportable segments. Adjusted EBITDA is the sum of the Company's earnings before interest expense, income taxes, depreciation and amortization and impairment expense. Although there are many factors that can impact a segment’s adjusted EBITDA and, therefore, our overall earnings, changes in metal margins of our steel products and downstream products period-over-period in the North America Steel Group and Europe Steel Group segments are a consistent area of focus for our Company and industry. Metal margin is a metric used by management to monitor the results of our vertically integrated organization. For our steel products, metal margin is the difference between the average selling price per ton of rebar, merchant bar and other steel products and the cost of ferrous scrap per ton utilized by our steel mills to produce these products. An increase or decrease in input costs can impact profitability of these products when there is no corresponding change in selling prices. The metal margin for the North America Steel Group and Europe Steel Group segments' downstream products is the difference between the average selling price per ton of our downstream products and the scrap input costs to produce these products. The majority of the North America Steel Group and Europe Steel Group segments' downstream products selling prices per ton are fixed at the beginning of a project and these projects last one to two years on average. Because the selling price generally remains fixed over the life of a project, changes in input costs over the life of the project can significantly impact profitability.

BUSINESS CONDITIONS AND DEVELOPMENTS

Change in Reportable Segments

During the first quarter of 2024, we changed our reportable segments to reflect a change in the manner in which our business is managed. Based on changes to our organizational structure, the evolution of our solutions offerings outside of traditional steel products, the growing importance of non-steel solutions to our financial results and future outlook and how our chief operating decision maker, our President and Chief Executive Officer, reviews operating results and makes decisions about resource allocation, we now have three reportable segments that represent the primary businesses reported in our consolidated financial statements: North America Steel Group, Europe Steel Group and Emerging Businesses Group. See the section titled "Results of Operations Summary" below and Part I, Item 1, Business for further information regarding our business and reportable segments. As a result of this change in reportable segments, certain prior year amounts have been recast to conform to the current year presentation. Throughout this Form 10-K, unless otherwise indicated, amounts and activity affected by the change in reportable segments have been reclassified.

2023 Acquisitions

On September 15, 2022, we completed the acquisition of Advanced Steel Recovery, LLC ("ASR"), a supplier of recycled ferrous scrap metals located in Southern California. ASR's primary operations include processing and brokering capabilities that source material for sale into both the domestic and export markets.

On November 14, 2022, we completed the acquisition of a Galveston, Texas area metals recycling facility and related assets (collectively, "Kodiak") from Kodiak Resources, Inc. and Kodiak Properties, L.L.C.

On March 3, 2023, we completed the acquisition of all of the assets of Roane Metals Group, LLC ("Roane"), a supplier of recycled metals with two facilities located in eastern Tennessee.

On March 17, 2023, we completed the acquisition of Tendon Systems, LLC ("Tendon"), a leading provider of post-tensioning, barrier cable and concrete restoration solutions to the southeastern U.S.

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On May 1, 2023, we completed the acquisition of all of the assets of BOSTD America, LLC ("BOSTD"), a geogrid manufacturing facility located in Blackwell, Oklahoma. Prior to the acquisition, BOSTD produced several product lines for our Tensar operations under a contract manufacturing arrangement.

On July 12, 2023, we completed the acquisition of EDSCO Fasteners, LLC ("EDSCO"), a leading provider of anchoring solutions for the electrical transmission market, with four manufacturing facilities located in North Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Utah. Following the acquisition, EDSCO was rebranded as CMC Anchoring Systems.

Operating results for ASR, Kodiak, Roane and Tendon are presented within the North America Steel Group segment. Operating results for BOSTD and CMC Anchoring Systems are presented within the Emerging Businesses Group segment. The acquired operations of ASR, Kodiak, Roane, Tendon, BOSTD and CMC Anchoring Systems are collectively referred to as the "2023 Acquisitions."

Tensar Acquisition

On April 25, 2022 (the "Tensar Acquisition Date"), we completed the acquisition of TAC Acquisition Corp. ("Tensar") for approximately $550 million, net of cash acquired. Through its patented foundation systems, Tensar produces ground stabilization and soil reinforcement solutions that complement our existing concrete reinforcement product lines and broaden our ability to address multiple early phases of commercial and infrastructure construction, including subgrade, foundation and structures. End customers for these products include commercial, industrial and residential site developers, mining and oil and gas companies, transportation authorities, coastal and waterway authorities and waste management companies. The acquired operations are presented within our Emerging Businesses Group segment. See Note 2, Changes in Business, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for more information about the Tensar acquisition.

Capital Expenditures

During the fourth quarter of 2023, our third micro mill was placed into service. The new facility, located in Mesa, Arizona, replaced the rebar capacity at our Rancho Cucamonga, California mill, which was sold during 2022, and allows us to meet underlying West Coast and Pacific Northwest demand for steel products. For further details on the sale of the Rancho Cucamonga, California mill, refer to Note 2, Changes in Business, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report. Designed to produce both rebar and merchant bar, this micro mill is the first in the world to produce merchant bar quality products through a continuous production process. Initial commercial production of rebar commenced during commissioning, prior to the startup of merchant bar production, which commenced during the second quarter of 2024. The merchant bar products produced at this facility consist of a wide variety of shapes and sizes of long steel, and, combined with rebar production, the capacity of this micro mill is approximately 40% greater than that of the other micro mills we have constructed. The micro mill was designed with the latest technology in electric arc furnace ("EAF") power supply systems, which can allow us to directly connect the EAF and the ladle furnace to renewable energy sources such as solar and wind. Additionally, this micro mill is the Company’s first micro mill to utilize Q-ONE technology on an EAF, which provides energy efficiencies and precise electrical control during production, creating a stable and consistent output.

In December 2022, we announced that our planned fourth micro mill would be located in Berkeley County, West Virginia. This new micro mill will be geographically situated to serve the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic and Mid-Western U.S. markets and will be supported by our existing network of downstream fabrication plants. Site improvements and foundation work for the micro mill are complete, large portions of supporting infrastructure have been installed and equipment installation is underway. We expect an operational start-up in late calendar 2025.

Chief Executive Officer Transition

Effective September 1, 2023, our Board appointed Peter R. Matt, our then President, as President and Chief Executive Officer, immediately following the retirement of Barbara R. Smith, our then Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board. The Chief Executive Officer transition from Ms. Smith to Mr. Matt followed our formal succession planning process. Mr. Matt has served as our President since April 9, 2023 and continues to serve as a member of the Board, which he joined in June 2020. Ms. Smith was appointed Executive Chairman of the Board, effective September 1, 2023, and retired from such position and from the Board effective August 31, 2024.

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Russian Invasion of Ukraine

The Russian invasion of Ukraine did not have a direct material adverse impact on our business, financial condition or results of operations during 2024, 2023 or 2022. Our Europe Steel Group segment has not experienced an interruption in energy supply and was able to identify alternate sources for a limited number of materials previously procured through Russia. However, the Russian invasion of Ukraine has led to economic slowdowns in Europe, including significant volatility in commodity prices and credit markets, reductions in demand, supply chain interruptions and higher global inflation. We will continue to monitor disruptions in supply of energy and materials and the indirect effects on our operations of inflationary pressures, reductions in demand, foreign exchange rate fluctuations, commodity pricing, potential cybersecurity risks and sanctions resulting from the invasion.

See Part I, Item 1A, Risk Factors, in this Annual Report for further discussion related to the above business conditions and developments.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS SUMMARY

2024 Compared to 2023

Net sales during 2024 decreased $873.6 million, or 10%, compared to 2023. See discussions below, labeled North America Steel Group, Europe Steel Group and Emerging Businesses Group within the Segment Operating Data section, for further information on our net sales results.

During 2024, we achieved net earnings of $485.5 million, a decrease of $374.3 million, or 44%, compared to 2023. The year-over-year change in net earnings was primarily due to compression in steel products metal margins in both our North America Steel Group and Europe Steel Group segments during 2024 driven by declining steel products average selling prices per ton, while the cost of ferrous scrap utilized per ton decreased at a lesser rate. Net earnings includes $69.4 million of government assistance recognized in the Europe Steel Group segment during 2024, compared to $13.8 million of government assistance recognized in 2023.

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses

SG&A expenses increased $21.5 million in 2024 compared to 2023. Contributing to the year-over-year increase was $10.3 million of incremental SG&A expenses attributable to the 2023 Acquisitions incurred during 2024 compared to a partial year of expenses recorded during 2023 following their respective acquisition dates. The remaining increase in SG&A expenses in 2024 compared to 2023 was primarily due to $10.2 million of increased professional services expenses, $5.9 million of increased benefit restoration plan ("BRP") expenses and $6.1 million of increased information technology expenses. These increases were partially offset by $11.2 million of decreased labor-related expenses in 2024 compared to 2023. Additionally, the results for 2023 included a $4.2 million pension plan settlement charge, with no such settlement charge in 2024. See Note 2, Changes in Business, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for more information about the 2023 Acquisitions and Note 14, Employees' Retirement Plans, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for more information on the pension plan termination activity.

Interest Expense

Interest expense increased $7.8 million in 2024 compared to 2023. Although lower average balances of long-term debt outstanding resulted in a $9.2 million decrease in interest expense during 2024 compared to 2023, this decrease was offset by $16.1 million of reduced capitalized interest during 2024 compared to 2023. The decrease in capitalized interest was attributable to the timing of micro mill construction activities, as construction of our third micro mill was nearing completion

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during 2023 and placed into service at the end of 2023, whereas construction of our fourth micro mill was in the beginning stages during most of 2024.

Income Taxes

Our effective income tax rate for 2024 was 23.6%, which was relatively consistent with our effective income tax rate of 23.4% for 2023. See Note 12, Income Tax, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for further discussion of our effective tax rate.

2023 Compared to 2022

Net sales during 2023 remained relatively flat compared to 2022. See discussions below, labeled North America Steel Group, Europe Steel Group and Emerging Businesses Group within the Segment Operating Data section, for further information on our net sales results.

During 2023, we achieved net earnings of $859.8 million, a decrease of $357.5 million, or 29%, compared to 2022. Included in net earnings during 2022 was a $273.3 million gain on the sale of the Rancho Cucamonga facilities. The remaining year-over-year change in net earnings was primarily due to compression in steel products metal margins in our Europe Steel Group segment during 2023, contrasted by significant expansion in downstream products metal margins over scrap in our North America Steel Group segment during 2023 compared to 2022. See Note 2, Changes in Business, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for more information on the sale of the Rancho Cucamonga facilities.

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses

SG&A expenses increased $98.6 million in 2023 compared to 2022. Contributing to the year-over-year increase was $60.5 million of incremental SG&A expenses from Tensar operations' commercial and engineering support incurred during 2023, compared to the expenses recorded in the period following the Tensar Acquisition Date to August 31, 2022, as well as $12.8 million of SG&A expenses from the 2023 Acquisitions, with no such expenses in 2022. The remaining increase in SG&A expenses in 2023 compared to 2022 was primarily due to an $11.1 million increase in professional services expenses, a $10.7 million increase in expenses for our BRP and a $4.2 million pension plan settlement charge, with no such settlement charge in the corresponding period. These fluctuations were partially offset by a $16.6 million decrease in labor-related expenses during 2023 compared to 2022. See Note 2, Changes in Business, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for more information about the Tensar acquisition and the 2023 Acquisitions and Note 14, Employees' Retirement Plans, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for more information on the pension plan termination activity.

Interest Expense

Interest expense decreased $10.6 million in 2023 compared to 2022, which can be attributed primarily to an increase in capitalized interest of $9.6 million in 2023 compared to 2022 due to construction of our third micro mill, as well as lower average interest rates on the long-term debt outstanding during 2023 compared to 2022.

Income Taxes

Our effective income tax rate for 2023 was 23.4% compared to 19.7% for 2022. The year-over-year increase was primarily due to a tax benefit recorded during 2022 from a capital loss on a restructuring transaction that did not recur in 2023, as well as a reduction in research and development tax credits in 2023 compared to 2022. See Note 12, Income Tax, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for further discussion of our effective tax rate.

SEGMENT OPERATING DATA

All amounts are computed and presented in a manner that is consistent with the basis in which we internally disaggregate financial information for the purpose of making operating decisions. See Note 19, Segment Information, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for further information on how we evaluate financial performance of our segments. The operational data by product category presented in the North America Steel Group and Europe Steel Group tables below is calculated using averages during each period presented.

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2024 Compared to 2023

North America Steel Group

Net sales to external customers in our North America Steel Group segment decreased $394.6 million, or 6%, in 2024 compared to 2023. Raw materials average selling price per ton increased slightly due to increases in the sales prices of both ferrous and nonferrous scrap metals, and raw materials tons shipped increased, in part, due to a full year of sales from the recycling operations acquired during 2023. See Note 2, Changes in Business, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for more information about the acquired recycling operations. However, this increase in net sales to external customers from sales of raw materials was offset by decreases in net sales to external customers of steel products and downstream products, primarily due to reductions in steel products and downstream products average selling prices per ton of 10% and 6%, respectively, in 2024 compared to 2023. For both steel products and downstream products, the reductions in selling prices were due to increased competitive pricing in our key markets. Furthermore, the downstream products average selling price per ton during 2023 reflected contracts that were awarded during periods of heightened steel commodity pricing, which has since declined.

During 2024, we achieved adjusted EBITDA of $946.4 million, a decrease of 29% compared to adjusted EBITDA of $1.3 billion in 2023. The decrease in adjusted EBITDA in 2024 compared to 2023 was caused by metal margin compression for both steel products and downstream products. The cost of ferrous scrap utilized per ton, the largest single driver of cost of goods sold for both steel products and downstream products, remained stable year-over-year. However, average selling prices decreased for both steel products and downstream products, as explained above.

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Europe Steel Group

Net sales to external customers in our Europe Steel Group segment decreased $480.2 million, or 36%, in 2024 compared to 2023. This decrease was primarily due to a 29% year-over-year reduction in steel products shipment volumes and a reduction in steel products average selling price per ton of 11% in 2024 as compared to 2023. The slowdown in demand was driven by the sustained indirect impacts of macroeconomic factors affecting the business climate in European end markets, which resulted in lower construction and industrial activity. Additionally, increased imports from neighboring countries contributed to the reduced steel products average selling price per ton in 2024 as compared to 2023. During 2024, overall, the U.S. dollar weakened compared to the Polish zloty. The effect of foreign currency translation was an increase in net sales to external customers of approximately $64.0 million for 2024, determined by using actual results for 2024 measured at the average currency rate during 2023.

Adjusted EBITDA decreased $26.0 million, or 54%, in 2024 compared to 2023, primarily driven by a contraction in steel products metal margin per ton of $74 per ton, or 21%, in 2024 compared to 2023, due to the decline in steel products average selling prices described above, which outpaced the decrease in the cost of ferrous scrap utilized per ton. Adjusted EBITDA was also negatively impacted by lower shipment volumes during 2024 compared to 2023, as described above. Offsetting the impact of the decrease in steel products metal margin per ton and lower shipment volumes, results during 2024 benefited from government assistance programs established to offset the rising costs of electricity and natural gas and the indirect costs of rising carbon emission rights included in energy costs. The government assistance recognized under the programs during 2024 was $69.4 million, compared to $13.8 million of government assistance recognized in 2023. The effect of foreign currency translation was an increase in adjusted EBITDA of approximately $3.8 million during 2024.

Emerging Businesses Group

Net sales to external customers in our Emerging Businesses Group segment remained relatively flat in 2024 compared to 2023. The acquired CMC Anchoring Systems operations provided $38.5 million of incremental net sales to external customers during 2024 compared to the net sales to external customers in 2023 following the acquisition date. See Note 2, Changes in Business, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for more information on the acquisition of CMC Anchoring Systems. CMC Construction Services' operations experienced a decline in net sales to external customers of $42.6 million, or 13%, in 2024 compared to 2023, due to reduced selling prices across many product lines.

Adjusted EBITDA decreased $9.5 million, or 7%, in 2024 compared to 2023. The year-over-year decrease in adjusted EBITDA was primarily a result of the decline in net sales to external customers for CMC Construction Services caused by reduced

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selling prices as described above, which impacted fixed cost leverage, and more than offset the positive contribution from the acquired CMC Anchoring Systems operations.

Corporate and Other

Corporate and Other adjusted EBITDA loss decreased by $3.4 million in 2024 compared to 2023. Contributing to the decrease in adjusted EBITDA loss during 2024 compared to 2023 was $13.5 million of increased interest income on short-term investments and $7.7 million of decreased labor-related expenses. Additionally, in 2023 we recognized a $4.2 million pension plan settlement charge, with no such settlement charge in 2024. In contrast to these reductions to adjusted EBITDA loss, we incurred $12.4 million of increased professional services expenses and recognized $6.7 million of other revenue from our New Markets Tax Credit (“NMTC”) transactions in 2024, compared to $17.7 million of other revenue from NMTC transactions in 2023. See Note 9, New Markets Tax Credit Transactions, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report, for more information on the NMTC transactions and Note 14, Employees' Retirement Plans, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report, for more information on the pension plan termination activity.

2023 Compared to 2022

North America Steel Group

Net sales to external customers in our North America Steel Group segment remained relatively flat in 2023 compared to 2022. While downstream products average selling prices experienced a significant increase of $207 per ton, or 17%, year-over-year, this fluctuation was offset by decreases in steel products average selling prices and raw materials average selling prices due to a falling scrap price environment. The increases in average selling prices for downstream products, many of which are fixed at the beginning of the project, reflected the increased input costs from rising scrap and energy prices during 2022 when we entered into the contracts. Additionally, the 2023 Acquisitions that are reported in the North America Steel Group segment contributed $152.1 million to net sales to external customers in 2023.

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During 2023, we achieved adjusted EBITDA of $1.3 billion compared to $1.5 billion in 2022. Included in adjusted EBITDA during 2022 was a $273.3 million gain on the sale of the Rancho Cucamonga facilities. The remaining year-over-year change was an increase in adjusted EBITDA due to significant expansion in downstream products margin over scrap per ton, driven by a combination of the high downstream products average selling prices mentioned above and sharp decreases in the cost of ferrous scrap utilized per ton. Additionally, the 2023 Acquisitions that are reported in the North America Steel Group segment contributed $13.2 million to adjusted EBITDA in 2023. See Note 2, Changes in Business, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for more information about the sale of the Rancho Cucamonga facilities.

Europe Steel Group

Net sales to external customers in our Europe Steel Group segment decreased $263.5 million, or 17%, in 2023 compared to 2022. This decrease was primarily due to a $147 per ton, or 16%, year-over-year decrease in steel products average selling price per ton, while volumes remained relatively flat year-over-year, as well as unfavorable impacts of foreign currency translation described below. The decrease in steel products average selling price per ton was driven by the indirect impacts of macroeconomic factors affecting the overall business climate in Europe, such as inflation and rising interest rates, which resulted in consumer uncertainties and delayed construction starts across our European end markets near the end of 2023. During 2023, overall, the U.S. dollar strengthened compared to the Polish zloty. The effect of foreign currency translation was a decrease in net sales to external customers of approximately $75.7 million during 2024, determined by using actual results for 2023 measured at the average currency rate during 2022.

Adjusted EBITDA decreased $296.2 million, or 86%, in 2023 compared to 2022, primarily driven by a contraction in steel products metal margin per ton, increased energy costs used in production and unfavorable impacts of foreign currency translation. Steel products metal margin per ton decreased $79 per ton, or 18%, in 2023 compared to 2022, due to the decline in steel products average selling prices per ton described above, which outpaced the decrease in cost of ferrous scrap utilized per ton. In addition to the change in steel products metal margin per ton, our Europe Steel Group segment continued to face an environment of heightened energy costs. The cost of energy increased $51 per ton during 2023 compared to 2022, net of the benefit from our electricity commodity derivative. The electricity commodidty derivative resulted in an $11.8 million realized gain in 2023, recorded as a reduction to cost of goods sold, compared to a $21.7 million realized gain in 2022. See Note 10, Derivatives, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for further information on the electricity commodity derivative. The effect of foreign currency translation was a decrease in adjusted EBITDA of approximately $18.2 million during 2024.

Emerging Businesses Group

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Net sales to external customers in our Emerging Businesses Group segment increased $196.2 million in 2023 compared to 2022. The acquired Tensar operations provided $159.3 million of incremental net sales to external customers during 2023 compared to the net sales to external customers in 2022 following the Tensar Acquisition Date, and CMC Anchoring Systems' operations contributed $7.6 million of net sales to external customers following their acquisition during 2023. See Note 2, Changes in Business, in Part II, Item 8, of this Annual Report for more information on the acquisitions of Tensar and CMC Anchoring Systems. The remaining increase in net sales to external customers included a $17.0 million increase from CMC Impact Metals in 2023 compared to 2022, due to favorable market conditions that led to both increased shipments and selling prices.

Adjusted EBITDA increased $66.4 million in 2023 compared to 2022. The acquired Tensar operations provided $44.9 million of incremental adjusted EBITDA during 2023 compared to the adjusted EBITDA in 2022 following the Tensar Acquisition Date. Additionally, CMC Anchoring Systems' operations contributed to the year-over-year changes by providing $1.1 million of adjusted EBITDA during 2023, with no such activity in the corresponding period. The remaining growth in adjusted EBITDA in 2023 compared to 2022 was experienced across all product offerings in the Emerging Businesses Group segment, including CMC Impact Metals, which provided an adjusted EBITDA increase of $7.5 million, or 47%, during 2023 compared to 2022.

Corporate and Other

Corporate and Other adjusted EBITDA loss decreased by $22.9 million in 2023 compared to 2022. Contributing to the year-over-year decrease in adjusted EBITDA loss was $18.9 million of increased interest income on short-term investments, compared to 2022, $17.7 million in other revenue from our NMTC transactions, with no such activity in 2022, and $16.1 million in debt extinguishment costs incurred during 2022, compared to immaterial activity in 2023. In contrast to these reductions to adjusted EBITDA loss, during 2023 compared to 2022 we incurred $12.1 million of increased labor-related expenses, $10.6 million of increased professional services expenses and $3.0 million of increased information technology expenses. Additionally, in 2023 we recognized a $4.2 million pension plan settlement charge, with no such settlement charge in 2022. See Note 9, New Markets Tax Credit Transactions, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report, for more information on the NMTC transactions and Note 14, Employees' Retirement Plans, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report, for more information on the pension plan termination activity.

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

Sources of Liquidity and Capital Resources

Our cash flows from operating activities are our principal sources of liquidity and result primarily from sales of products offered by the vertically integrated operations in the North America Steel Group segment and the Europe Steel Group segment, products offered by our Emerging Businesses Group segment and related materials and services, as described in Part I, Item 1, Business, of this Annual Report. Historically, our U.S. operations have generated the majority of our cash. At August 31, 2024, cash and cash equivalents of $30.9 million were held by our non-U.S. subsidiaries. We use futures or forward contracts to mitigate the risks from fluctuations in metal commodity prices, foreign currency exchange rates, interest rates and natural gas, electricity and other energy commodity prices. See Note 10, Derivatives, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for further information.

We have a diverse and generally stable customer base, and regularly maintain a substantial amount of accounts receivable. We actively monitor our accounts receivable and, based on market conditions and customers' financial condition, record allowances when we believe accounts are uncollectible. We use credit insurance internationally to mitigate the risk of customer insolvency. We estimate that the amount of credit-insured or financially assured receivables was approximately 13% of total receivables at August 31, 2024.

The table below reflects our sources, facilities and availability of liquidity as of August 31, 2024. See Note 8, Credit Arrangements, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for additional information.

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(1) We believe we have access to additional financing and refinancing, if needed, although we can make no assurances as to the form or terms of such financing.

We continually review our capital resources to determine whether we can meet our short and long-term goals. For at least the next twelve months, we anticipate our current cash balances, cash flows from operations and available sources of liquidity will be sufficient to maintain operations, make necessary capital expenditures, invest in the development of our fourth micro mill, pay dividends and opportunistically repurchase shares. Additionally, we expect our long-term liquidity position will be sufficient to meet our long-term liquidity needs with cash flows from operations and financing arrangements. However, in the event of changes in business conditions or other developments, including a sustained market deterioration, unanticipated regulatory developments, significant acquisitions, competitive pressures, or to the extent our liquidity needs prove to be greater than expected or cash generated from operations is less than anticipated, we may need additional liquidity. To the extent we elect to finance our long-term liquidity needs, we believe that the potential financing capital available to us in the future will be sufficient.

We aim to execute a capital allocation strategy that prioritizes both value-accretive growth and competitive cash returns to stockholders. We estimate that our 2025 capital spending will range from $630 million to $680 million. We regularly assess our capital spending based on current and expected results and the amount is subject to change.

In January 2024, our Board authorized an increase of $500.0 million to the existing share repurchase program. During 2024, 2023 and 2022, we repurchased $182.9 million, $101.4 million and $161.9 million, respectively, of shares of CMC common stock. We had remaining authorization to repurchase $403.8 million of shares of CMC common stock at August 31, 2024. See Note 15, Capital Stock, in Part II, Item 8, of this Annual Report for more information on the share repurchase program.

In March 2024, our Board authorized an increase of $0.02 to our quarterly cash dividend, resulting in a $0.18 per share cash dividend paid during the third and fourth quarters of 2024, compared to a $0.16 per share quarterly cash dividend paid during the first and second quarters of 2024 and during 2023. On October 15, 2024, our Board declared CMC's 240th quarterly cash dividend. The dividend was declared at the rate of $0.18 per share of CMC common stock and is payable on November 14, 2024 to stockholders of record as of the close of business on October 31, 2024. During 2024, 2023 and 2022 we paid $78.9 million, $74.9 million and $67.7 million, respectively, of cash dividends to our stockholders.

Our credit arrangements require compliance with certain non-financial and financial covenants, including an interest coverage ratio and a debt to capitalization ratio. At August 31, 2024, we believe we were in compliance with all covenants contained in our credit arrangements.

As of August 31, 2024 and 2023, we had no off-balance sheet arrangements that may have a current or future material effect on our financial condition, revenues or expenses, results of operations, liquidity, capital expenditures or capital resources.

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2024 Compared to 2023

Operating Activities

Net cash flows from operating activities were $899.7 million and $1.3 billion in 2024 and 2023, respectively. Contributing to the year-over-year change was a $374.3 million decrease in net earnings and a $55.7 million decrease in cash from operating assets and liabilities. In general, the fluctuations in cash flows from accounts receivable and inventory were largely driven by continued decreases in the pricing and scrap cost environment during 2024 compared to 2023 as described in the Segment Operating Data section above. Partially offsetting the decreases in cash flows from accounts receivable and inventory was a reduction in cash flows used by accounts payable, accrued expenses and other payables in 2024 compared to 2023. While both periods were affected by declining inventory values and reductions in accrued labor-related expenses, the fluctuations in accounts payable, accrued expenses and other payables were greater in 2023 compared to 2024. Additional changes include a $67.2 million decrease in deferred income taxes and other long-term taxes, partially offset by $61.5 million of additional depreciation and amortization expense. The additional depreciation and amortization expense in 2024 compared to 2023 was largely attributable to placing our third micro mill into service during the fourth quarter of 2023. Lastly, we recorded $6.7 million of non-cash other revenue from the settlement of NMTC transactions during 2024, compared to $17.7 million in 2023. See Note 12, Income Tax, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for more information on the change in deferred income taxes and Note 9, New Markets Tax Credit Transactions, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for more information on the NMTC transactions.

Investing Activities

Net cash flows used by investing activities were $323.0 million and $835.2 million in 2024 and 2023, respectively. During 2023, cash flows used by investing activities included $234.7 million of cash used for acquisitions, with no such acquisitions during 2024. Additionally, capital expenditures decreased year-over-year by $282.4 million. The decrease in capital expenditures was largely driven by the timing of micro mill construction, which resulted in greater cash outflows as we neared the completion of our third micro mill during 2023, compared to the expenditures in the early days of construction of our fourth micro mill during 2024. See Note 2, Changes in Business, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report, for more information about our acquisitions completed in 2023.

Financing Activities

Net cash flows used by financing activities were $313.8 million and $599.5 million in 2024 and 2023, respectively. The decrease in net cash flows used by financing activities during 2024 compared to 2023 included a $353.4 million decrease in repayments of long-term debt and a $10.9 million decrease in net repayments under our Polish accounts receivable facility, offset, in part, by an $81.5 million increase in treasury stock acquired under the share repurchase program. See Note 8, Credit Arrangements, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for more information regarding our credit arrangements and accounts receivable facility and Note 15, Capital Stock, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for more information on the share repurchase program.

2023 Compared to 2022

Our discussion and analysis of cash flows due to and from operating, investing and financing activities during 2023 as compared to 2022 can be found in Part II, Item 7, Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended August 31, 2023, which was filed with the SEC on October 12, 2023. The change in reportable segments during the first quarter of 2024 did not alter the discussion previously provided.

Contractual Obligations and Commitments

Our material cash commitments from known contractual and other obligations primarily consist of obligations for long-term debt and related interest, leases for properties and equipment and purchase obligations as part of normal operations. See Note 8, Credit Arrangements, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for more information regarding scheduled maturities of our long-term debt. See Note 7, Leases, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for additional information on leases. Interest payable on our long-term debt was $43.4 million due in the twelve months following August 31, 2024 and $343.4 million due thereafter. Additionally, we have a U.S. federal repatriation tax obligation resulting from the repatriation tax provisions of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act ("TCJA"), of which $5.5 million was due in the twelve months following August 31, 2024 and $6.9 million is due thereafter.

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As of August 31, 2024, our undiscounted purchase obligations were approximately $720 million due in the next twelve months and $340 million due thereafter under purchase orders and "take or pay" arrangements. These purchase obligations include all enforceable, legally binding agreements to purchase goods or services that specify all significant terms, regardless of the duration of the agreement, and exclude agreements with variable terms for which we are unable to estimate the minimum amounts. The "take or pay" arrangements are multi-year commitments with minimum annual purchase requirements and are entered into primarily for purchases of commodities used in operations such as electrodes and natural gas.

Of the purchase obligations due within the twelve months following August 31, 2024, approximately 23% were for consumable production inputs, such as alloys, 21% were for the construction of our fourth micro mill, 19% were for commodities and 14% were for capital expenditures in connection with normal business operations. Of the purchase obligations due thereafter, 69% were for commodities and 9% were for the construction of our fourth micro mill. The remainder of the purchase obligations are for goods and services in the normal course of business.

We provide certain eligible employees benefits pursuant to our nonqualified BRP equal to amounts that would have been available under our tax qualified plans under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended ("ERISA"), but for limitations of ERISA, tax laws and regulations. We did not include estimated payments related to the BRP in the above description of contractual obligations and commitments. Refer to Note 14, Employees' Retirement Plans, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for more information on the BRP.

Other Commercial Commitments

We maintain stand-by letters of credit to provide support for certain transactions that governmental agencies, our insurance providers and suppliers require. At August 31, 2024, we had committed $44.8 million under these arrangements, of which $0.9 million reduced availability under the Revolver (as defined in Note 8, Credit Arrangements, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report).

CONTINGENCIES

In the ordinary course of conducting our business, we become involved in litigation, administrative proceedings and governmental investigations, including environmental matters. We may incur settlements, fines, penalties or judgments because of some of these matters. Liabilities and costs associated with litigation-related loss contingencies require estimates and judgments based on our knowledge of the facts and circumstances surrounding each matter and the advice of our legal counsel. We record liabilities for litigation-related losses when a loss is probable and we can reasonably estimate the amount of the loss. We evaluate the measurement of recorded liabilities each reporting period based on the current facts and circumstances specific to each matter. The ultimate losses incurred upon final resolution of litigation-related loss contingencies may differ materially from the estimated liability recorded at a particular balance sheet date. Changes in estimates are recorded in earnings in the period in which such changes occur. See Note 17, Commitments and Contingencies, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for more information on pending litigation and other matters.

Environmental and Other Matters

The information set forth in Note 17, Commitments and Contingencies, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report is hereby incorporated by reference.

General

We are subject to federal, state and local pollution control laws and regulations in all locations where we have operating facilities. We anticipate that compliance with these laws and regulations will involve continuing capital expenditures and operating costs.

Metals recycling was our original business, and it has been one of our core businesses for over a century. In the present era of conservation of natural resources and ecological concerns, we are committed to sound ecological and business conduct. Certain governmental regulations regarding environmental concerns, however well-intentioned, may expose us and our industry to potentially significant risks. We believe that recycled materials are commodities that are diverted by recyclers, such as us, from the solid waste streams because of their inherent value and thus should be treated like products rather than wastes. They are identified, purchased, sorted, processed and sold by us in accordance with carefully established industry specifications.

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We incurred environmental expenses of approximately $54.9 million, $49.3 million and $44.2 million for 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively. The expenses included the cost of disposal, environmental personnel at various divisions, permit and license fees, accruals and payments for studies, tests, assessments, remediation, consultant fees, baghouse dust removal and various other expenses. In addition, during 2024, we spent approximately $5.0 million in capital expenditures related to costs directly associated with environmental compliance. Our accrued environmental liabilities were $3.4 million and $4.5 million as of August 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively, of which $1.9 million and $2.0 million were classified as other noncurrent liabilities within the Company's consolidated balance sheets as of August 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively.

Solid and Hazardous Waste

We generate wastes, including hazardous wastes, that are subject to the Federal Resource Conservation and Recovery Act and comparable state and local statutes where we operate. These statutes, regulations and laws may limit our disposal options with respect to certain wastes.

We currently own or lease, and in the past we have owned or leased, properties for use in our operations. Although we have used operating and disposal practices that were industry standard at the time, wastes may have been disposed of or released on or under the properties or on or under locations where such wastes have been taken for disposal in a manner that is now understood to pose a contamination threat. We are currently involved in the investigation and remediation of several such properties, and we have been named as a PRP by governmental entities at a number of contaminated sites.

State and federal laws applicable to wastes and contaminated properties have gradually become more strict over time. There is no guarantee that the EPA or individual states will not adopt more stringent requirements for the handling of, or make changes to the exemptions upon which we rely, for the wastes that we generate. Similarly, some materials which are not currently classified as waste may be deemed solid or hazardous waste in the future. Under new laws, we could be required to remediate properties impacted by previously disposed wastes. Any such change could result in an increase in our costs to manage and dispose of waste which could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of our operations and financial condition.

Superfund

The EPA, or an equivalent state agency, has notified us that we are considered a PRP at several sites, none of which involve real estate we ever owned or upon which we have ever conducted operations. We may be obligated under CERCLA, or similar state statutes, to conduct remedial investigation, feasibility studies, remediation and/or removal of alleged releases of hazardous substances or to reimburse the EPA or third parties for such activities and pay costs for associated damages to natural resources. We are involved in litigation or administrative proceedings with regard to several of these sites in which we are contesting, or at the appropriate time may contest, our liability. In addition, we have received information requests with regard to other sites which may be under consideration by the EPA as potential CERCLA sites. Because of various factors, including the ambiguity of the regulations, the difficulty of identifying the responsible parties for any particular site, the complexity of determining the relative liability among them, the uncertainty as to the most desirable remediation techniques and the amount of damages and cleanup costs, and the extended time periods over which such costs may be incurred, we cannot reasonably estimate our ultimate costs of compliance with CERCLA. Based on currently available information, which is in many cases preliminary and incomplete, we had immaterial amounts accrued as of both August 31, 2024 and 2023, in connection with CERCLA sites. We have accrued for these liabilities based upon our best estimates. The amounts paid and the expenses incurred on these sites for 2024, 2023 and 2022 were not material. Historically, the amounts that we have ultimately paid for such remediation activities have not been material.

We believe that adequate provisions have been made in the consolidated financial statements for the potential impact of these contingencies, and that the outcomes of the suits and proceedings described above, and other miscellaneous litigation and proceedings now pending, will not have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations or financial condition.

Clean Water Regulation

The Clean Water Act ("CWA") imposes restrictions and strict controls regarding the discharge of wastes into waters of the U.S., a term broadly defined, or into publicly owned treatment works. These controls have become more stringent over time, and it is probable that additional restrictions will be imposed in the future. Permits must generally be obtained to discharge pollutants into federal waters or into publicly owned treatment works and comparable permits may be required at the state level. The CWA and many state statutes provide for civil, criminal and administrative penalties for unauthorized discharges of pollutants. In addition, the EPA's regulations and comparable state statutes may require us to obtain permits to discharge storm water runoff. In the event of an unauthorized discharge or non-compliance with permit requirements, we may be liable for penalties, costs and injunctive relief.

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Clean Air Act

Our operations are subject to regulations at the federal, state and local level for the control of emissions from sources of air pollution. New and modified sources of air pollutants are often required to obtain permits prior to commencing construction, modification or operations. Major sources of air pollutants are subject to more stringent requirements, including the potential need for additional permits and to increase scrutiny in the context of enforcement. The EPA has been implementing its stationary emission control program through expanded enforcement of the New Source Review Program. Under this program, new or modified sources may be required to construct emission sources using what is referred to as the Best Available Control Technology, or in any areas that are not meeting NAAQS, using methods that satisfy requirements for the Lowest Achievable Emission Rate. Additionally, the EPA has implemented, and is continuing to implement, new, more stringent standards for NAAQS, including fine particulate matter. Compliance with new standards could require additional expenditures.

Climate Change

The potential impacts of climate change on our business and results of operations and potential future climate change regulations in the jurisdictions in which we operate are highly uncertain. See the risk factors entitled "Increased regulation associated with climate change could impose significant additional costs on both our steelmaking and metals recycling operations" and "Physical impacts of climate change could have a material adverse effect on our costs and results of operations" in Part I, Item 1A, Risk Factors, of this Annual Report.

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES

The preceding discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations is based upon our consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. The preparation of the consolidated financial statements requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenue and expenses and related disclosure of contingent liabilities. We evaluate the appropriateness of these estimates and assumptions, including those related to revenue recognition, income taxes, inventory cost, acquisitions, goodwill and other intangible assets, long-lived assets, derivative financial instruments and contingencies, on an ongoing basis. Estimates and assumptions are based on historical experience and on various other assumptions that we believe to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying value of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Accordingly, actual results in future periods could differ materially from these estimates. Judgments and estimates related to critical accounting policies used in the preparation of the consolidated financial statements include the following:

Revenue Recognition

Revenue from contracts where the Company provides fabricated rebar and installation services is recognized over time using an input method based on costs incurred compared to total estimated costs. Revenue from contracts where the Company does not provide installation services is recognized over time using an output method based on tons shipped compared to total estimated tons. Significant judgment is required to evaluate total estimated costs used in the input method and total estimated tons in the output method. If total estimated costs on any contract are greater than the net contract revenues, the Company recognizes the entire estimated loss in the period the loss becomes known. The cumulative effect of revisions to estimates related to net contract revenues, costs to complete or total planned quantity is recorded in the period in which such revisions are identified. The Company does not exercise significant judgment in determining the transaction price. See Note 4, Revenue Recognition, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for further details.

Income Taxes

We periodically assess the likelihood of realizing our deferred tax assets and maintain a valuation allowance to reduce certain deferred tax assets to amounts that we believe are more likely than not to be realized. We base our judgment of the recoverability of our deferred tax assets primarily on historical earnings, our estimate of current and expected future earnings, prudent and feasible tax planning strategies and current and future ownership changes. At August 31, 2024 and 2023, we had valuation allowances of $256.8 million and $280.5 million, respectively, against our deferred tax assets. Of these amounts, $10.0 million and $13.3 million at August 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively, relate to net operating loss and credit carryforwards in certain state jurisdictions that are subject to estimation. The remaining valuation allowance primarily relates to net operating loss carryforwards in certain foreign jurisdictions, which the Company does not expect to realize.

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Inventory Cost

We state inventories at the lower of cost or net realizable value, which is defined as estimated selling prices in the ordinary course of business, less reasonably predictable costs of completion, disposal and transportation. Adjustments to inventory may be due to changes in price levels, assumptions about market conditions, obsolescence, damage, physical deterioration and other causes. Any adjustments required to reduce the carrying value of inventory to net realizable value are recorded as a charge to cost of goods sold within the consolidated statements of earnings. In fiscal 2024, we recorded $5.1 million of inventory write-downs within our Europe Steel Group segment resulting from changes in future demand and market conditions impacting the vertically integrated operations in Poland. A hypothetical 10% decrease to the estimated selling prices used in the calculation of net realizable value of inventory within these operations in Poland would have resulted in a $3.9 million increase to the inventory write-downs recorded as of August 31, 2024.

Acquisitions

The Company accounts for business combinations under the acquisition method of accounting, which requires assets acquired and liabilities assumed to be recorded at their estimated fair value at the date of acquisition. The fair value is estimated by the Company using valuation techniques and Level 3 inputs, including expected future cash flows and discount rates. The excess of purchase price over the fair value amounts assigned to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed, if any, is recorded as goodwill. Determining the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed involves the use of significant estimates and assumptions. See Note 2, Changes in Business, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for more information about the Company's acquisitions.

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets

Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets are tested for impairment annually as of the first day of the Company’s fourth quarter (the "annual impairment test date"), and between annual tests whenever events or circumstances indicate that the carrying value of a reporting unit, including goodwill, or of an indefinite-lived intangible asset exceeds its fair value. Goodwill is tested at the reporting unit level, which represents an operating segment or one level below an operating segment. When evaluating goodwill and other indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment, the Company may first assess qualitative factors in determining whether it is more likely than not that the respective fair value is less than its carrying amount. The qualitative evaluation is an assessment of multiple factors, including the current operating environment, historical and future financial performance and industry and market considerations. The Company may elect to bypass this qualitative assessment for some or all of its reporting units or other indefinite-lived intangible assets and perform a quantitative test, based on management's judgment. If the Company chooses to bypass the qualitative assessment, it performs a quantitative test by comparing the fair value of the reporting units or indefinite-lived intangible assets to their respective carrying amounts and records an impairment charge if the carrying amount exceeds the fair value; however, the loss recognized, if any, will not exceed the total amount of the intangible asset or the goodwill allocated to a reporting unit.

When assessing the recoverability of goodwill using a quantitative approach we use an income and a market approach to calculate the fair value of the reporting unit. To calculate the fair value of a reporting unit using the income approach, management uses a discounted cash flow model, which includes a number of significant assumptions and estimates regarding future cash flows such as discount rates, volumes, prices, capital expenditures and the impact of current market conditions. The market approach estimates fair value based on market multiples of earnings derived from comparable publicly traded companies with similar operating and investment characteristics as the reporting unit. The estimates used during a quantitative approach to test goodwill could be materially impacted by adverse changes in market conditions.

For 2024 and 2023, the annual goodwill impairment analyses did not result in impairment charges. As of the 2024 annual impairment test date, the Company had goodwill of $383.9 million related to three reporting units within the North America Steel Group segment, one reporting unit within the Europe Steel Group segment and four reporting units within the Emerging Businesses Group segment. Six reporting units, which, as of the 2024 annual impairment test date, comprised $5.0 million of goodwill within the North America Steel Group segment, $4.1 million of goodwill within the Europe Steel Group segment and $262.4 million of goodwill within the Emerging Businesses Group segment, were assessed for impairment using a qualitative approach. Management determined it was more likely than not that the fair values of the reporting units which were assessed using a qualitative approach exceeded their respective carrying values.

The remaining two reporting units, both within the North America Steel Group segment, were tested for impairment using a quantitative approach. The fair values of these two reporting units consisting of $71.7 million and $40.7 million of goodwill as of the 2024 annual impairment test date exceeded their carrying values by greater than 30%. The Company believes the fair values of the reporting units tested using a quantitative approach are substantially in excess of their carrying values. An increase

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or decrease of 2% to the discount rate or terminal growth rate used in the quantitative impairment tests for these reporting units would not result in impairment charges. The difference in the value of goodwill between the 2024 annual impairment test date and August 31, 2024 was due to the foreign currency translation adjustments.

As of the 2024 annual impairment test date, the Company had $57.3 million of other indefinite-lived intangible assets within the Emerging Businesses Group segment, of which $54.1 million were tested for impairment using a quantitative approach. To perform the quantitative impairment tests, the Company used an income approach to calculate the fair value of each intangible asset using a relief from royalty method. Significant inputs to measure the fair value of the indefinite-lived intangible assets included projected revenue growth rates, royalty rates and discount rates. The fair values of the indefinite-lived intangible assets exceeded their carrying values in excess of 30%. The difference in the value of indefinite-lived intangible assets between the 2024 annual impairment test date and August 31, 2024 was due to foreign currency translation adjustments. Based on the Company’s annual impairment testing of the indefinite-lived intangible assets, we concluded it was more likely than not that their fair values exceeded the respective carrying values.

Based on the results of impairment tests performed in 2024, management does not believe that it is reasonably likely that our reporting units or indefinite-lived intangible assets will fail their respective impairment tests in the near term. See Note 6, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for additional information.

Long-Lived Assets

We evaluate the carrying value of property, plant and equipment and finite-lived intangible assets whenever a change in circumstances indicates that the net carrying value may not be recoverable from the entity-specific undiscounted future cash flows expected to result from our use of and eventual disposition of a long-lived asset or asset group. Events or circumstances that could trigger an impairment review of a long-lived asset or asset group include, but are not limited to: (i) a significant decrease in the market price of the asset, (ii) a significant adverse change in the extent or manner that the asset is used or in its physical condition, (iii) a significant adverse change in legal factors or in the business climate that could affect the value of the asset, (iv) an accumulation of costs significantly in excess of original expectation for the acquisition or construction of the asset, (v) a current period operating or cash flow loss combined with a history of operating or cash flow losses or a forecast of continuing losses associated with the use of the asset and (vi) a more-likely-than-not expectation that the asset will be sold or disposed of significantly before the end of its previously estimated useful life. If an impairment exists, the net carrying values are reduced to fair values. We estimate the fair values of these long-lived assets by performing a discounted future cash flow analysis for the remaining useful life of the asset, or the remaining useful life of the primary asset in the case of an asset group. An individual asset within an asset group is not impaired below its estimated fair value.

Our operations are capital intensive. The estimates of undiscounted future cash flows used during an impairment review of a long-lived asset or asset group require judgments and assumptions of future cash flows that are expected to arise as a direct result of the use and eventual disposition of the asset or asset group. If these assets were for sale, our estimates of their values could be significantly different because of market conditions, specific transaction terms and a buyer's perspective on future cash flows. During 2024, there were no events or circumstances that triggered an impairment review.

Derivative Financial Instruments

Our global operations and product lines expose us to risks from fluctuations in metal commodity prices, foreign currency exchange rates, interest rates and natural gas, electricity and other energy prices. To limit the impact of these exposures, we enter into derivative instruments. We do not enter into derivative financial instruments for speculative purposes. We evaluate the fair value of our derivative financial instruments using an established fair value hierarchy as stated in Note 1, Nature of Operations and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report.

The Company has three Level 3 commodity derivatives which are bilateral agreements with a counterparty. The fair value estimates of the Level 3 commodity derivatives are based on an internally developed discounted cash flow model primarily utilizing unobservable inputs for which there is little or no market data. The company determined the Level 3 fair value inputs as provided for under ASC 820 utilizing information obtained from relevant published indexes and external sources along with management’s own assumptions. Fluctuations in the information used to forecast future energy rates may cause volatility in the fair value estimate and in the unrealized gains and losses in other comprehensive income. See Note 11, Fair Value, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for more information on the Level 3 commodity derivatives.

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Contingencies

In the ordinary course of conducting our business, we become involved in litigation, administrative proceedings and governmental investigations, including environmental matters. We may incur settlements, fines, penalties or judgments in connection with some of these matters. While we are unable to estimate the ultimate dollar amount of exposure or loss in connection with these matters, we make accruals when a loss is probable and the amount can be reasonably estimated. The amounts we accrue could vary substantially from amounts we pay due to several factors including the following: evolving remediation technology, changing regulations, possible third-party contributions, the inherent uncertainties of the estimation process and the uncertainties involved in litigation. We believe that we have adequately provided for these contingencies as needed in our consolidated financial statements. See Note 17, Commitments and Contingencies, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for more information on pending litigation and other matters.

Other Accounting Policies and New Accounting Pronouncements

See Note 1, Nature of Operations and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This Annual Report contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the federal securities laws. The statements in this report that are not historical statements are forward-looking statements and address activities, events or developments that may occur in the future, including (without limitation) such matters as activities related to general economic conditions, key macro-economic drivers that impact our business, the effects of ongoing trade actions, the effects of continued pressure on the liquidity of our customers, potential synergies and growth provided by acquisitions and strategic investments, demand for our products, shipment volumes, metal margins, the ability to operate our steel mills at full capacity, future availability and cost of supplies of raw materials and energy for our operations, growth rates in certain reportable segments, product margins within our Emerging Businesses Group, share repurchases, legal proceedings, construction activity, international trade, the impact of geopolitical conditions, capital expenditures, tax credits, our liquidity and our ability to satisfy future liquidity requirements, estimated contractual obligations, the expected capabilities and benefits of new facilities, the timeline for execution of our growth plan and our expectations or beliefs concerning future events. These forward-looking statements can generally be identified by phrases such as we or our management "expects," "anticipates," "believes," "estimates," "future," "intends," "may," "plans to," "ought," "could," "will," "should," "likely," "appears," "projects," "forecasts," "outlook" or other similar words or phrases, as well as by discussions of strategy, plans or intentions.

Our forward-looking statements are based on management's expectations and beliefs as of the time this Annual Report is filed with the SEC or, with respect to any document incorporated by reference, as of the time such document was prepared. Although we believe that our expectations are reasonable, we can give no assurance that these expectations will prove to have been correct, and actual results may vary materially. Except as required by law, we undertake no obligation to update, amend or clarify any forward-looking statements to reflect changed assumptions, the occurrence of anticipated or unanticipated events, new information or circumstances or any other changes. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from our expectations include those described in Part I, Item 1A, Risk Factors and Part II, Item 7, Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations of this Annual Report as well as the following:

•changes in economic conditions which affect demand for our products or construction activity generally, and the impact of such changes on the highly cyclical steel industry;

•rapid and significant changes in the price of metals, potentially impairing our inventory values due to declines in commodity prices or reducing the profitability of downstream contracts within our vertically integrated steel operations due to rising commodity pricing;

•excess capacity in our industry, particularly in China, and product availability from competing steel mills and other steel suppliers including import quantities and pricing;

•the impact of geopolitical conditions, including political turmoil and volatility, regional conflicts, terrorism and war on the global economy, inflation, energy supplies and raw materials;

•increased attention to environmental, social and governance ("ESG") matters, including any targets or other ESG, environmental justice or regulatory initiatives;

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•operating and startup risks, as well as market risks associated with the commissioning of new projects could prevent us from realizing anticipated benefits and could result in a loss of all or a substantial part of our investments;

•impacts from global public health crises on the economy, demand for our products, global supply chain and on our operations;

•compliance with and changes in existing and future laws, regulations and other legal requirements and judicial decisions that govern our business, including increased environmental regulations associated with climate change and greenhouse gas emissions;

•involvement in various environmental matters that may result in fines, penalties or judgments;

•evolving remediation technology, changing regulations, possible third-party contributions, the inherent uncertainties of the estimation process and other factors that may impact amounts accrued for environmental liabilities;

•potential limitations in our or our customers' abilities to access credit and non-compliance with their contractual obligations, including payment obligations;

•activity in repurchasing shares of our common stock under our share repurchase program;

•financial and non-financial covenants and restrictions on the operation of our business contained in agreements governing our debt;

•our ability to successfully identify, consummate and integrate acquisitions and realize any or all of the anticipated synergies or other benefits of acquisitions;

•the effects that acquisitions may have on our financial leverage;

•risks associated with acquisitions generally, such as the inability to obtain, or delays in obtaining, required approvals under applicable antitrust legislation and other regulatory and third-party consents and approvals;

•lower than expected future levels of revenues and higher than expected future costs;

•failure or inability to implement growth strategies in a timely manner;

•the impact of goodwill or other indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment charges;

•the impact of long-lived asset impairment charges;

•currency fluctuations;

•global factors, such as trade measures, military conflicts and political uncertainties, including changes to current trade regulations, such as Section 232 trade tariffs and quotas, tax legislation and other regulations which might adversely impact our business;

•availability and pricing of electricity, electrodes and natural gas for mill operations;

•our ability to hire and retain key executives and other employees;

•competition from other materials or from competitors that have a lower cost structure or access to greater financial resources;

•information technology interruptions and breaches in security;

•our ability to make necessary capital expenditures;

•availability and pricing of raw materials and other items over which we exert little influence, including scrap metal, energy and insurance;

•unexpected equipment failures;

•losses or limited potential gains due to hedging transactions;

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•litigation claims and settlements, court decisions, regulatory rulings and legal compliance risks;

•risk of injury or death to employees, customers or other visitors to our operations; and

•civil unrest, protests and riots.

Refer to the "Risk Factors" disclosed in our periodic and current reports filed with the SEC for information regarding additional risks which would cause actual results to be significantly different from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other important factors that could cause actual results, performance or our achievements, or industry results, to differ materially from historical results, any future results, or performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Accordingly, readers of this Annual Report are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements.

ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

This Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations should be read in conjunction with our consolidated financial statements and the accompanying notes contained in this Annual Report.

Our discussion and analysis of fiscal year 2023 compared to fiscal year 2022 is included herein. Our discussion and analysis of fiscal year 2022 compared to fiscal year 2021 can be found in Part II, Item 7, Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended August 31, 2022, which was filed with the SEC on October 13, 2022.

Any reference in this Annual Report to a "year-over-year" change relates to the relevant comparison between activity from each twelve month period ended August 31, 2023 and 2022.

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Table of Contents

OVERVIEW

CMC is an innovative solutions provider helping build a stronger, safer and more sustainable world. Through an extensive manufacturing network principally located in the U.S. and Central Europe, we offer products and technologies to meet the critical reinforcement needs of the global construction sector. CMC’s solutions support construction across a wide variety of applications, including infrastructure, non-residential, residential, industrial and energy generation and transmission. Our operations are conducted through two reportable segments: North America and Europe. See Part I, Item 1, Business for further information regarding our business and reportable segments.

Key Performance Indicators

When evaluating our results for the period, we compare net sales, in the aggregate and for both of our segments, in the current period to net sales in the corresponding period of the prior year. In doing so, we focus on changes in average selling price per ton and tons shipped compared to the prior period for each of our vertically integrated product categories (raw materials, steel products and downstream products) as these are the two variables that typically have the greatest impact on our net sales. Raw materials include ferrous and nonferrous scrap, steel products include rebar, merchant bar and other steel products, such as billets and wire rod, and downstream products primarily include fabricated rebar and steel fence posts.

Adjusted EBITDA is used by management to compare and evaluate the period-over-period underlying business operational performance of our segments. Adjusted EBITDA is the sum of earnings before interest expense, income taxes, depreciation and amortization and impairment expense. Although there are many factors that can impact a segment’s adjusted EBITDA and, therefore, our overall earnings, changes in metal margin of our steel products and downstream products period-over-period is a consistent area of focus for our Company and industry. Metal margin is a metric used by management to monitor the results of our vertically integrated organization. For our steel products, metal margin is the difference between the average selling price per ton of rebar, merchant bar and other steel products and the cost of ferrous scrap per ton utilized by our steel mills to produce these products. An increase or decrease in input costs can impact profitability of these products when there is no corresponding change in selling prices due to competitive pressures. The metal margin for our downstream products is the difference between the average selling price per ton of fabricated rebar and steel fence post products and the scrap input costs to produce these products. The majority of our downstream products selling prices per ton are fixed at the beginning of a project and these projects last one to two years on average. Because the selling price generally remains fixed over the life of a project, changes in input costs over the life of the project can significantly impact profitability.

BUSINESS CONDITIONS AND DEVELOPMENTS

2023 Acquisitions

On September 15, 2022, we completed the acquisition of Advanced Steel Recovery, LLC ("ASR"), a supplier of recycled ferrous metals located in Southern California. ASR's primary operations include processing and brokering capabilities that source material for sale into both the domestic and export markets.

On November 14, 2022, we completed the acquisition of a Galveston, Texas area metals recycling facility and related assets (collectively, "Kodiak") from Kodiak Resources, Inc. and Kodiak Properties, L.L.C.

On March 3, 2023, we completed the acquisition of all of the assets of Roane Metals Group, LLC ("Roane"), a supplier of recycled metals with two facilities located in eastern Tennessee. The majority of volumes processed by Roane relate to obsolete ferrous scrap metals to be consumed by our steel mill operations.

On March 17, 2023, we completed the acquisition of Tendon Systems, LLC ("Tendon"), a leading provider of post-tensioning, barrier cable and concrete restoration solutions to the southeastern U.S.

On May 1, 2023, we completed the acquisition of all of the assets of BOSTD America, LLC ("BOSTD"), a geogrid manufacturing facility located in Blackwell, Oklahoma. Prior to the acquisition, BOSTD produced several product lines for our Tensar operations under a contract manufacturing arrangement.

On July 12, 2023, we completed the acquisition of EDSCO Fasteners, LLC ("EDSCO"), a leading provider of anchoring solutions for the electrical transmission market, with four manufacturing facilities located in North Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Utah.

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The acquisitions of ASR, Kodiak, Roane, Tendon, BOSTD and EDSCO (collectively, the "2023 Acquisitions") are not significant individually, or in the aggregate, to our financial position as of August 31, 2023 or results of operations for the year ended August 31, 2023. Operating results for the 2023 Acquisitions are presented within our North America reportable segment.

Tensar Acquisition

On April 25, 2022 (the "Tensar Acquisition Date"), we completed the acquisition of TAC Acquisition Corp. ("Tensar") for approximately $550 million, net of cash acquired. Through its patented foundation systems, Tensar produces ground stabilization and soil reinforcement solutions that complement our existing concrete reinforcement product lines and broaden our ability to address multiple early phases of commercial and infrastructure construction, including subgrade, foundation and structures. End customers for these products include commercial, industrial and residential site developers, mining and oil and gas companies, transportation authorities, coastal and waterway authorities and waste management companies. The acquired operations within North America are presented within our North America reportable segment, and the remaining acquired operations are presented within our Europe reportable segment, in each case since the Tensar Acquisition Date. See Note 2, Changes in Business, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for more information about the Tensar acquisition.

Capital Expenditures

During the fourth quarter of 2023, our third micro mill was placed into service. Initial commercial production of rebar commenced during commissioning, prior to the startup of merchant bar production that will occur in 2024. This micro mill will be the first in the world with the capability to produce merchant bar quality products through a continuous production process and employs the latest technology in EAF power supply systems, which will allow us to directly connect the EAF and the ladle furnace to renewable energy sources such as solar and wind. The new facility, located in Mesa, Arizona, replaces the rebar capacity at our Rancho Cucamonga, California mill, which was sold during 2022, and allows us to more efficiently meet West Coast demand for steel products. For further details on the sale of the Rancho Cucamonga, California mill, refer to Note 2, Changes in Business, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report.

In December 2022, we announced that our planned fourth micro mill will be located in Berkeley County, West Virginia. This new micro mill will be geographically situated to serve the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic and Mid-Western U.S. markets and will enhance our steel production capabilities by achieving synergies within the existing network of mills and downstream fabrication plants.

In July 2021, we completed the construction of and commissioned a third rolling line at our mini mill in Poland. The third rolling line takes advantage of historical excess melting capacity in Poland, expands our overall rolling capacity and allows the rolling lines to now operate independently for each steel product produced by the mini mill (rebar, merchant bar and wire rod).

Chief Executive Officer Transition

Effective September 1, 2023, our Board of Directors appointed Peter R. Matt, our then President, as President and Chief Executive Officer, immediately following the retirement of Barbara R. Smith, our then Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board of Directors. Mr. Matt has served as our President since April 9, 2023 and will continue as a member of the Board of Directors, which he joined in June 2020. Ms. Smith was appointed Executive Chairman of the Board of Directors, effective September 1, 2023. The transition from Ms. Smith to Mr. Matt followed our formal succession planning process.

Russian Invasion of Ukraine

The Russian invasion of Ukraine did not have a direct material adverse impact on our business, financial condition or results of operations during 2023 or 2022. Our Europe segment has not had an interruption in energy supply and was able to identify alternate sources for a limited number of materials previously procured through Russia. However, the Russian invasion of Ukraine has been an indirect contributor to the deterioration of the economic conditions in Europe, among other macroeconomic factors, and we will continue to monitor disruptions in supply of energy and materials and the indirect effects on our operations of inflationary pressures, reductions in demand, foreign exchange rate fluctuations, commodity pricing, potential cybersecurity risks and sanctions resulting from the invasion.

See Part I, Item 1A, Risk Factors, in this Annual Report for further discussion related to the above business conditions and developments.

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RESULTS OF OPERATIONS SUMMARY

2023 Compared to 2022

Net sales during 2023 remained relatively flat, compared to 2022. See discussions below, labeled North America and Europe within our Segments section, for further information on our year-over-year net sales results.

During 2023, we achieved net earnings of $859.8 million, a decrease of $357.5 million, or 29%, compared to 2022. Included in net earnings during 2022 was a $273.3 million gain on the sale of the Rancho Cucamonga facilities. The remaining year-over-year change in net earnings was primarily due to compression in steel products metal margins in our Europe segment during 2023, contrasted by significant expansion in downstream products metal margins over scrap in our North America segment during 2023 compared to 2022. See Note 2, Changes in Business, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for more information on the sale of the Rancho Cucamonga facilities.

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses

SG&A expenses increased $98.6 million in 2023 compared to 2022. Contributing to the year-over-year increase was $60.5 million of incremental SG&A expenses from Tensar operations' commercial and engineering support incurred during the twelve months ended August 31, 2023, compared to the expenses recorded in the period following the Tensar Acquisition Date to August 31, 2022, as well as $12.8 million of SG&A expenses from the 2023 Acquisitions, with no such expenses in 2022. The remaining increase in SG&A expenses in 2023 compared to 2022 was due primarily to an $11.1 million increase in professional services expenses, a $10.7 million increase in expenses for our benefit restoration plan ("BRP") and a $4.2 million pension plan settlement charge, with no such settlement charge in the corresponding period. These fluctuations were partially offset by a $16.6 million decrease in labor-related expenses during 2023 compared to 2022. See Note 2, Changes in Business, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for more information about the Tensar acquisition and the 2023 Acquisitions and Note 14, Employees' Retirement Plans, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for more information on the pension plan termination activity.

Interest Expense

Interest expense decreased $10.6 million in 2023 compared to 2022, which can be attributed primarily to an increase in capitalized interest of $9.6 million in 2023 compared to 2022 due to construction of our third micro mill, as well as lower average interest rates on the long-term debt outstanding during 2023 compared to 2022.

Income Taxes

Our effective income tax rate for 2023 was 23.4% compared to 19.7% for 2022. The year-over-year increase was primarily due to a tax benefit recorded during 2022 from a capital loss on a restructuring transaction that did not recur in 2023, as well as a reduction in research and development tax credits in 2023 compared to 2022. See Note 12, Income Tax, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for further discussion of our effective tax rate.

SEGMENTS

All amounts are computed and presented in a manner that is consistent with the basis in which we internally disaggregate financial information for the purpose of making operating decisions. See Note 19, Operating Segments, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for further information on how we evaluate financial performance of our segments. The operational data by product category presented in the tables below reflects activity from sales of raw materials, steel products and downstream products, as applicable, which comprise the majority of sales in North America and Europe. The data is calculated using averages, and therefore, it is not meaningful to quantify the effect that any individual metric had on the segment's net sales or adjusted EBITDA.

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2023 Compared to 2022

North America

Net sales in our North America segment remained relatively flat in 2023 compared to 2022. While downstream products average selling prices experienced a significant increase of $209 per ton, or 17%, year-over-year, this fluctuation was offset by decreases in steel products average selling prices and raw materials average selling prices due to a falling scrap price environment. The increases in average selling prices for downstream products, many of which are fixed at the beginning of the project, reflected the increased input costs from rising scrap and energy prices during 2022 when we entered into the contracts. The acquired Tensar operations also contributed an incremental $105.1 million of net sales in 2023 compared to 2022 following the Tensar Acquisition Date. Further, the 2023 Acquisitions contributed $159.7 million to the increase in net sales in 2023.

During 2023 we achieved adjusted EBITDA of $1.5 billion compared to $1.6 billion in 2022. Included in adjusted EBITDA during 2022 was a $273.3 million non-recurring gain on the sale of the Rancho Cucamonga facilities. The remaining year-over-year change was an increase in adjusted EBITDA due to significant expansion in downstream products margin over scrap per ton, driven by a combination of the high downstream products average selling prices mentioned above and sharp decreases in the cost of ferrous scrap utilized per ton. Additionally, the acquired Tensar operations provided incremental adjusted EBITDA of $32.1 million in 2023 compared to 2022 following the Tensar Acquisition Date. Further, the 2023 Acquisitions contributed $14.3 million to adjusted EBITDA in 2023. See Note 2, Changes in Business, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for more information about the sale of the Rancho Cucamonga facilities.

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Europe

Net sales in the Europe segment decreased $204.9 million, or 13%, in 2023 compared to 2022. This decrease was primarily due to a $147 per ton, or 16%, year-over-year decrease in steel products average selling price, while volumes remained relatively flat year-over-year, as well as unfavorable impacts of foreign currency translation. The decrease in steel products average selling price was driven by the indirect impacts of macroeconomic factors affecting the overall business climate in Europe, such as inflation and rising interest rates, which resulted in consumer uncertainties and delayed construction starts across our European end markets near the end of 2023. The acquired Tensar operations provided $58.2 million of incremental net sales during 2023 compared to the net sales in 2022 following the Tensar Acquisition Date. During 2023, overall, the U.S. dollar strengthened compared to the currencies of our Europe operations, such as the Polish zloty, euro and British pound. Using actual results for 2023 and using the prior year's average currency rates for 2022, foreign currency translation would result in an increase in net sales of approximately $71.6 million.

Adjusted EBITDA decreased $284.7 million, or 82%, in 2023 compared to 2022, primarily driven by a contraction in steel products metal margin per ton, increased energy costs used in production and unfavorable impacts of foreign currency translation. Steel products metal margin per ton decreased $79 per ton, or 18%, in 2023 compared to 2022, due to the decline in steel products average selling prices described above, which outpaced the decrease in cost of ferrous scrap utilized. In addition to the change in steel products metal margin per ton, our Europe segment continues to face an environment of heightened energy costs. The cost of energy increased $51 per ton during 2023 compared to 2022, net of the benefit from our electricity commodity derivative, which resulted in an $11.8 million realized gain in 2023, recorded as a reduction to cost of goods sold, compared to a $21.7 million realized gain in 2022. See Note 10, Derivatives, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for further information on the electricity commodity derivative. Finally, using actual results for 2023 and using the prior year's average currency rates for 2022, foreign currency translation would result in an increase in adjusted EBITDA of approximately $17.8 million. Offsetting these reductions to adjusted EBITDA, the acquired Tensar operations provided $11.5 million of incremental adjusted EBITDA during 2023 compared to the adjusted EBITDA in 2022 following the Tensar Acquisition Date.

Corporate and Other

Corporate and Other adjusted EBITDA loss decreased by $22.7 million in 2023 compared to 2022. Contributing to the year-over-year decrease in adjusted EBITDA loss was $18.9 million of increased interest income on short-term investments, compared to 2022, $17.7 million in other revenue from our New Markets Tax Credit (“NMTC”) transactions, with no such activity in 2022, and $16.1 million in debt extinguishment costs incurred during 2022, compared to immaterial activity in 2023. In contrast to these reductions to adjusted EBITDA loss, during 2023 compared to 2022 we incurred $12.1 million of increased labor-related expenses, $10.6 million of increased professional services expenses and $3.0 million of increased information technology expenses. Additionally, in 2023 we recognized a $4.2 million pension plan settlement charge, with no such

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settlement charge in 2022. See Note 9, New Markets Tax Credit Transactions, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report, for more information on the NMTC transactions and Note 14, Employees' Retirement Plans, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report, for more information on the pension plan termination activity.

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

Sources of Liquidity and Capital Resources

Our cash flows from operating activities are our principal sources of liquidity and result primarily from sales of raw materials, steel products, downstream products and related materials and services, as described in Part I, Item 1, Business, of this Annual Report. Historically, our North America operations have generated the majority of our cash. At August 31, 2023, cash and cash equivalents of $24.9 million were held by our non-U.S. subsidiaries. We use futures or forward contracts to mitigate the risks from fluctuations in metal commodity prices, foreign currency exchange rates, interest rates and natural gas, electricity and other energy commodity prices. See Note 10, Derivatives, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for further information.

We have a diverse and generally stable customer base, and regularly maintain a substantial amount of accounts receivable. We actively monitor our accounts receivable and, based on market conditions and customers' financial condition, record allowances when we believe accounts are uncollectible. We use credit insurance internationally to mitigate the risk of customer insolvency. We estimate that the amount of credit-insured or financially assured receivables was approximately 14% of total receivables at August 31, 2023.

The table below reflects our sources, facilities and availability of liquidity as of August 31, 2023. See Note 8, Credit Arrangements, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for additional information.

__________________________________

(1) We believe we have access to additional financing and refinancing, if needed, although we can make no assurances as to the form or terms of such financing.

We continually review our capital resources to determine whether we can meet our short and long-term goals. We anticipate our current cash balances, cash flows from operations and available sources of liquidity will be sufficient to maintain operations, make necessary capital expenditures, pay dividends and opportunistically repurchase shares for at least the next twelve months. Additionally, we expect our long-term liquidity position will be sufficient to meet our long-term liquidity needs with cash flows from operations and financing arrangements. However, in the event of changes in business conditions or other developments, including a sustained market deterioration, unanticipated regulatory developments, significant acquisitions, competitive pressures, or to the extent our liquidity needs prove to be greater than expected or cash generated from operations is less than anticipated, we may need additional liquidity. To the extent we elect to finance our long-term liquidity needs, we believe that the potential financing capital available to us in the future is sufficient.

We estimate that our 2024 capital spending will range from $550 million to $600 million. We regularly assess our capital spending based on current and expected results and the amount is subject to change.

As of August 31, 2023 and 2022, we had no off-balance sheet arrangements that may have a current or future material effect on our financial condition, revenues or expenses, results of operations, liquidity, capital expenditures or capital resources.

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2023 Compared to 2022

Operating Activities

Net cash flows from operating activities were $1.3 billion and $700.3 million in 2023 and 2022, respectively. The increase in net cash flows from operating activities was largely due to a decreased scrap price environment during 2023 compared to increased scrap prices in 2022. The decrease in scrap prices reduced cash used by inventory purchases by $432.2 million year-over-year and led to lower steel products average selling prices during 2023 compared to 2022, which contributed to an increase in cash flows from accounts receivable of $432.7 million year-over-year. These fluctuations were partially offset by a year-over-year increase in cash used by accounts payable, accrued expenses and other payables of $178.0 million due, in part, to the declining scrap price environment mentioned above and a reduction in accrued labor-related expenses during 2023 compared to 2022. Additional offsets to the increase in cash flows from operating activities were a $34.3 million decrease in cash flows from deferred income taxes and other long-term taxes and a $15.9 million reduction in loss on debt extinguishment during 2023 compared to 2022. Additionally, we recorded $17.7 million of non-cash other revenue from the settlement of NMTC transactions during 2023, with no such transactions in 2022. See Note 12, Income Tax, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for more information on the change in deferred taxes and Note 9, New Markets Tax Credit Transactions in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for more information on the NMTC transactions.

Investing Activities

Net cash flows used by investing activities were $835.2 million and $684.7 million in 2023 and 2022, respectively, an increase of $150.5 million. The fluctuation in net cash flows used by investing activities was largely driven by $156.7 million of additional capital expenditures in 2023 compared to 2022, primarily for the construction of our third and fourth micro mills, along with the proceeds from the sale of the Rancho Cucamonga facilities during 2022 compared to immaterial proceeds from the sale of assets in 2023. These fluctuations in cash flows used by investing activities were offset, in part, by a $317.7 million decrease in acquisitions during 2023 compared to 2022. See Note 2, Changes in Business, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report, for more information about the sale of the Rancho Cucamonga facilities and our acquisitions completed in 2023 and 2022.

Financing Activities

Net cash flows used by financing activities were $599.5 million in 2023, compared to net cash flows from financing activities of $165.3 million in 2022. The $764.8 million increase in net cash flows used by financing activities was largely driven by net repayments of long-term debt of $389.8 million during 2023, compared to net proceeds from long-term debt of $414.8 million during 2022. Additionally, net repayments under our accounts receivable facilities were $19.0 million during 2023 compared to net proceeds of $6.3 million during 2022, resulting in an increase in cash flows used by financing activities of $25.3 million in 2023. Partially offsetting these cash flows used by financing activities was a $60.5 million decrease in treasury stock acquired under the share repurchase program during 2023 compared to 2022. See Note 8, Credit Arrangements in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for more information regarding our credit arrangements and accounts receivable facility and Note 15, Capital Stock in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for more information on the share repurchase program.

Contractual Obligations and Commitments

Our material cash commitments from known contractual and other obligations primarily consist of obligations for long-term debt and related interest, leases for properties and equipment and purchase obligations as part of normal operations. See Note 8, Credit Arrangements, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for more information regarding scheduled maturities of our long-term debt. See Note 7, Leases, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for additional information on leases. Interest payable on our long-term debt was $43.5 million due in the twelve months following August 31, 2023 and $386.8 million due thereafter. Additionally, we have a U.S. federal repatriation tax obligation resulting from the repatriation tax provisions of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act ("TCJA"), of which $4.2 million was due in the twelve months following August 31, 2023 and $12.5 million due thereafter.

As of August 31, 2023, our undiscounted purchase obligations were approximately $800 million due in the next twelve months and $340 million due thereafter under purchase orders and "take or pay" arrangements. These purchase obligations include all enforceable, legally binding agreements to purchase goods or services that specify all significant terms, regardless of the duration of the agreement, and exclude agreements with variable terms for which we are unable to estimate the minimum amounts. The "take or pay" arrangements are multi-year commitments with minimum annual purchase requirements and are entered into primarily for purchases of commodities used in operations such as electrodes and natural gas.

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Of the purchase obligations due within the twelve months following August 31, 2023, approximately 23% were for consumable production inputs, such as alloys, 20% were for capital expenditures in connection with normal business operations, 19% were for commodities and 14% were for the construction of our fourth micro mill. Of the purchase obligations due thereafter, 75% were for commodities and 10% were for the construction of our fourth micro mill. The remainder of the purchase obligations are for goods and services in the normal course of business.

We provide certain eligible employees benefits pursuant to our nonqualified BRP equal to amounts that would have been available under our tax qualified plans under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended ("ERISA"), but for limitations of ERISA, tax laws and regulations. We did not include estimated payments related to the BRP in the above description of contractual obligations and commitments. Refer to Note 14, Employees' Retirement Plans, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for more information on the BRP.

Other Commercial Commitments

We maintain stand-by letters of credit to provide support for certain transactions that governmental agencies, our insurance providers and suppliers require. At August 31, 2023, we had committed $21.8 million under these arrangements, of which $0.9 million reduced availability under the Revolver (as defined in Note 8, Credit Arrangements, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report).

CONTINGENCIES

In the ordinary course of conducting our business, we become involved in litigation, administrative proceedings and governmental investigations, including environmental matters. We may incur settlements, fines, penalties or judgments because of some of these matters. Liabilities and costs associated with litigation-related loss contingencies require estimates and judgments based on our knowledge of the facts and circumstances surrounding each matter and the advice of our legal counsel. We record liabilities for litigation-related losses when a loss is probable and we can reasonably estimate the amount of the loss. We evaluate the measurement of recorded liabilities each reporting period based on the current facts and circumstances specific to each matter. The ultimate losses incurred upon final resolution of litigation-related loss contingencies may differ materially from the estimated liability recorded at a particular balance sheet date. Changes in estimates are recorded in earnings in the period in which such changes occur. We do not believe that any currently pending legal proceedings to which we are a party will have a material adverse effect, individually or in the aggregate, on our results of operations, cash flows or financial condition. See Note 17, Commitments and Contingencies, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for more information.

Environmental and Other Matters

The information set forth in Note 17, Commitments and Contingencies, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report is hereby incorporated by reference.

General

We are subject to federal, state and local pollution control laws and regulations in all locations where we have operating facilities. We anticipate that compliance with these laws and regulations will involve continuing capital expenditures and operating costs.

Metals recycling was our original business, and it has been one of our core businesses for over a century. In the present era of conservation of natural resources and ecological concerns, we are committed to sound ecological and business conduct. Certain governmental regulations regarding environmental concerns, however well-intentioned, may expose us and our industry to potentially significant risks. We believe that recycled materials are commodities that are diverted by recyclers, such as us, from the solid waste streams because of their inherent value. They are identified, purchased, sorted, processed and sold in accordance with carefully established industry specifications.

We incurred environmental expenses of approximately $49.3 million, $44.2 million and $49.8 million for 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively. The expenses included the cost of disposal, environmental personnel at various divisions, permit and license fees, accruals and payments for studies, tests, assessments, remediation, consultant fees, baghouse dust removal and various other expenses. In addition, during 2023, we spent approximately $5.8 million in capital expenditures related to costs directly associated with environmental compliance. Our accrued environmental liabilities were $4.5 million and $5.3 million as of

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August 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, of which $2.0 million were classified as other noncurrent liabilities as of both August 31, 2023 and 2022.

Solid and Hazardous Waste

We generate wastes, including hazardous wastes, that are subject to the Federal Resource Conservation and Recovery Act and comparable state and local statutes where we operate. These statutes, regulations and laws may limit our disposal options with respect to certain wastes.

We currently own or lease, and in the past we have owned or leased, properties for use in our operations. Although we have used operating and disposal practices that were industry standard at the time, wastes may have been disposed of or released on or under the properties or on or under locations where such wastes have been taken for disposal in a manner that is now understood to pose a contamination threat. We are currently involved in the investigation and remediation of several such properties, and we have been named as a PRP at a number of contaminated sites, none of which involve real estate we ever owned or upon which we have ever conducted operations.

State and federal laws applicable to wastes and contaminated properties have gradually become more strict over time. There is no guarantee that the EPA or individual states will not adopt more stringent requirements for the handling of, or make changes to the exemptions upon which we rely for, the wastes that we generate. Similarly, some materials which are not currently classified as waste may be deemed solid or hazardous waste in the future. Under new laws, we could be required to remediate properties impacted by previously disposed wastes. Any such change could result in an increase in our costs to manage and dispose of waste which could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of our operations and financial condition.

Superfund

The EPA, or an equivalent state agency, has notified us that we are considered a PRP at several sites, none of which involve real estate we ever owned or upon which we have ever conducted operations. We may be obligated under CERCLA, or similar state statutes, to conduct remedial investigation, feasibility studies, remediation and/or removal of alleged releases of hazardous substances or to reimburse the EPA or third parties for such activities and pay costs for associated damages to natural resources. We are involved in litigation or administrative proceedings with regard to several of these sites in which we are contesting, or at the appropriate time may contest, our liability. In addition, we have received information requests with regard to other sites which may be under consideration by the EPA as potential CERCLA sites. Because of various factors, including the ambiguity of the regulations, the difficulty of identifying the responsible parties for any particular site, the complexity of determining the relative liability among them, the uncertainty as to the most desirable remediation techniques and the amount of damages and cleanup costs, and the extended time periods over which such costs may be incurred, we cannot reasonably estimate our ultimate costs of compliance with CERCLA. Based on currently available information, which is in many cases preliminary and incomplete, we had immaterial amounts accrued as of both August 31, 2023 and 2022, in connection with CERCLA sites. We have accrued for these liabilities based upon our best estimates. The amounts paid and the expenses incurred on these sites for 2023, 2022 and 2021 were not material. Historically, the amounts that we have ultimately paid for such remediation activities have not been material.

We believe that adequate provisions have been made in the consolidated financial statements for the potential impact of these contingencies, and that the outcomes of the suits and proceedings described above, and other miscellaneous litigation and proceedings now pending, will not have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations or financial condition.

Clean Water Regulation

The Clean Water Act ("CWA") imposes restrictions and strict controls regarding the discharge of wastes into waters of the U.S., a term broadly defined, or into publicly owned treatment works. These controls have become more stringent over time, and it is probable that additional restrictions will be imposed in the future. Permits must generally be obtained to discharge pollutants into federal waters or into publicly owned treatment works and comparable permits may be required at the state level. The CWA and many state statutes provide for civil, criminal and administrative penalties for unauthorized discharges of pollutants. In addition, the EPA's regulations and comparable state statutes may require us to obtain permits to discharge storm water runoff. In the event of an unauthorized discharge or non-compliance with permit requirements, we may be liable for penalties, costs and injunctive relief.

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Clean Air Act

Our operations are subject to regulations at the federal, state and local level for the control of emissions from sources of air pollution. New and modified sources of air pollutants are often required to obtain permits prior to commencing construction, modification or operations. Major sources of air pollutants are subject to more stringent requirements, including the potential need for additional permits and to increase scrutiny in the context of enforcement. The EPA has been implementing its stationary emission control program through expanded enforcement of the New Source Review Program. Under this program, new or modified sources may be required to construct emission sources using what is referred to as the Best Available Control Technology, or in any areas that are not meeting NAAQS, using methods that satisfy requirements for the Lowest Achievable Emission Rate. Additionally, the EPA has implemented, and is continuing to implement, new, more stringent standards for NAAQS, including fine particulate matter. Compliance with new standards could require additional expenditures.

Climate Change

The potential impacts of climate change on our business and results of operations and potential future climate change regulations in the jurisdictions in which we operate are highly uncertain. See the risk factors entitled "Increased regulation associated with climate change could impose significant additional costs on both our steelmaking and metals recycling operations" and "Physical impacts of climate change could have a material adverse effect on our costs and results of operations" in Part I, Item 1A, Risk Factors, of this Annual Report.

DIVIDENDS

We paid quarterly dividends in 2023 at the rate of $0.16 per share of CMC common stock, compared to quarterly dividends paid in 2022 at the rate of $0.14 per share of CMC common stock. On October 10, 2023, the Board of Directors declared CMC's 236th quarterly cash dividend. The dividend was declared at the rate of $0.16 per share of CMC common stock and is payable on November 9, 2023 to stockholders of record as of the close of business on October 26, 2023.

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES

The preceding discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations is based upon our consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. The preparation of the consolidated financial statements requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenue and expenses and related disclosure of contingent liabilities. We evaluate the appropriateness of these estimates and assumptions, including those related to revenue recognition, income taxes, inventory cost, acquisitions, goodwill and other intangible assets, long-lived assets, derivative instruments and contingencies, on an ongoing basis. Estimates and assumptions are based on historical experience and on various other assumptions that we believe to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying value of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Accordingly, actual results in future periods could differ materially from these estimates. Judgments and estimates related to critical accounting policies used in the preparation of the consolidated financial statements include the following:

Revenue Recognition

Revenue from contracts where the Company provides fabricated rebar and installation services is recognized over time using an input method based on costs incurred compared to total estimated costs. Revenue from contracts where the Company does not provide installation services is recognized over time using an output method based on tons shipped compared to total estimated tons. Significant judgment is required to evaluate total estimated costs used in the input method and total estimated tons in the output method. If total estimated costs on any contract are greater than the net contract revenues, the Company recognizes the entire estimated loss in the period the loss becomes known. The cumulative effect of revisions to estimates related to net contract revenues, costs to complete or total planned quantity is recorded in the period in which such revisions are identified. The Company does not exercise significant judgment in determining the transaction price. See Note 4, Revenue Recognition, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for further details.

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Income Taxes

We periodically assess the likelihood of realizing our deferred tax assets and maintain a valuation allowance to reduce certain deferred tax assets to amounts that we believe are more likely than not to be realized. We base our judgment of the recoverability of our deferred tax assets primarily on historical earnings, our estimate of current and expected future earnings, prudent and feasible tax planning strategies and current and future ownership changes. At August 31, 2023 and 2022, we had a valuation allowance of $280.5 million and $268.5 million, respectively, against our deferred tax assets. Of these amounts, $13.3 million and $8.4 million at August 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, relate to net operating loss and credit carryforwards in certain state jurisdictions that are subject to estimation. The remaining valuation allowance primarily relates to net operating loss carryforwards in certain foreign jurisdictions, which the Company does not expect to realize.

Inventory Cost

We state inventories at the lower of cost or net realizable value, which is defined as estimated selling prices in the ordinary course of business, less reasonably predictable costs of completion, disposal and transportation. Adjustments to inventory may be due to changes in price levels, assumptions about market conditions, obsolescence, damage, physical deterioration and other causes. Any adjustments required to reduce the carrying value of inventory to net realizable value are recorded as a charge to cost of goods sold within the consolidated statements of earnings. In fiscal 2023, we recorded $10.7 million of inventory write-downs within our Europe segment resulting from changes in future demand and market conditions impacting the vertically integrated operations in Poland. A hypothetical 10% decrease to the estimated selling prices used in the calculation of net realizable value of inventory within these operations in Poland would have resulted in a $5.0 million increase to the inventory write-downs recorded as of August 31, 2023.

Acquisitions

The Company accounts for business combinations under the acquisition method of accounting, which requires assets acquired and liabilities assumed to be recorded at their estimated fair value at the date of acquisition. The fair value is estimated by the Company using valuation techniques and Level 3 inputs, including expected future cash flows and discount rates. The excess of purchase price over the fair value amounts assigned to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed, if any, is recorded as goodwill. Determining the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed involves the use of significant estimates and assumptions. See Note 2, Changes in Business, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for more information about acquisitions.

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets

Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets are tested for impairment annually as of the first day of the Company’s fourth quarter (the "annual impairment test date"), or more frequently whenever events or circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable. Goodwill is tested at the reporting unit level, which represents an operating segment or one level below an operating segment. When evaluating goodwill and other indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment, the Company may first assess qualitative factors in determining whether it is more likely than not that the respective fair value is less than its carrying amount. The qualitative evaluation is an assessment of multiple factors, including the current operating environment, financial performance and market considerations. The Company may elect to bypass this qualitative assessment for some or all of its reporting units or other indefinite-lived intangible assets and perform a quantitative test, based on management's judgment. If the Company chooses to bypass the qualitative assessment, it performs a quantitative test by comparing the fair value of the reporting units or indefinite-lived intangible assets to their respective carrying amounts and records an impairment charge if the carrying amount exceeds the fair value; however, the loss recognized, if any, will not exceed the total amount of the intangible asset or the goodwill allocated to a reporting unit.

When assessing the recoverability of goodwill using a quantitative approach we use an income and a market approach to calculate the fair value of the reporting unit. To calculate the fair value of a reporting unit using the income approach, management uses a discounted cash flow model, which includes a number of significant assumptions and estimates regarding future cash flows such as discount rates, volumes, prices, capital expenditures and the impact of current market conditions. The market approach estimates fair value based on market multiples of earnings derived from comparable publicly traded companies with similar operating and investment characteristics as the reporting unit. The estimates used during a quantitative approach to test goodwill could be materially impacted by adverse changes in market conditions.

For 2023 and 2022, the annual goodwill impairment analyses did not result in impairment charges. As of the 2023 annual impairment test date, the Company had goodwill of $342.1 million related to four reporting units within the North America segment and two reporting units within the Europe segment. Three reporting units, which comprised $46.0 million of goodwill within the North America operating segment and $3.8 million of goodwill within the Europe segment as of the 2023 annual

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impairment test date, were tested for impairment using a qualitative approach. Management determined it was more likely than not that the fair values of the reporting units which were tested using a qualitative approach exceeded their respective carrying values.

The remaining three reporting units were tested for impairment using a quantitative approach. The fair values of two reporting units within the North America segment with $252.3 million of goodwill as of the 2023 annual impairment test date exceeded their carrying values by greater than 20%. The fair value of the reporting unit within the Europe segment with $40.0 million of goodwill as of the 2023 annual impairment test date exceeded its carrying value by greater than 10%. The Company believes the fair values of the reporting units tested using a quantitative approach are substantially in excess of their carrying values. An increase or decrease of 1% to the discount rate or terminal growth rate used in the quantitative impairment tests for these reporting units would not result in impairment charges. The difference in the value of goodwill between the 2023 annual impairment test date and August 31, 2023 was due to the acquisition of EDSCO and foreign currency translation adjustments.

As of the 2023 annual impairment test date, the Company had $57.1 million of indefinite-lived intangible assets, of which $53.8 million were tested for impairment using a quantitative approach. To perform the quantitative impairment tests, the Company used an income approach to calculate the fair value of each intangible asset using a relief from royalty method. Significant inputs to measure the fair value of the indefinite-lived intangible assets included projected revenue growth rates, royalty rates and discount rates. The fair values of the indefinite-lived intangible assets within the North America segment with carrying values of $39.1 million as of the 2023 annual impairment test date exceeded their carrying values in excess of 30%. The fair values of the indefinite-lived intangible assets within the Europe segment with carrying values of $10.0 million and $4.7 million as of the 2023 annual impairment test date exceeded their carrying values in excess of 20% and 10%, respectively. The difference in the value of indefinite-lived intangible assets between the 2023 annual impairment test date and August 31, 2023 was due to foreign currency translation adjustments. Based on the Company’s annual impairment testing of the indefinite-lived intangible assets, we concluded it was more likely than not that their fair values exceeded the respective carrying values.

Based on the results of impairment tests performed in 2023, management does not believe that it is reasonably likely that our reporting units or indefinite-lived intangible assets will fail their respective impairment tests in the near term. See Note 6, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for additional information.

Long-Lived Assets

We evaluate the carrying value of property, plant and equipment and finite-lived intangible assets whenever a change in circumstances indicates that the net carrying value may not be recoverable from the entity-specific undiscounted future cash flows expected to result from our use of and eventual disposition of a long-lived asset or asset group. Events or circumstances that could trigger an impairment review of a long-lived asset or asset group include, but are not limited to: (i) a significant decrease in the market price of the asset, (ii) a significant adverse change in the extent or manner that the asset is used or in its physical condition, (iii) a significant adverse change in legal factors or in the business climate that could affect the value of the asset, (iv) an accumulation of costs significantly in excess of original expectation for the acquisition or construction of the asset, (v) a current period operating or cash flow loss combined with a history of operating or cash flow losses or a forecast of continuing losses associated with the use of the asset and (vi) a more-likely-than-not expectation that the asset will be sold or disposed of significantly before the end of its previously estimated useful life. If an impairment exists, the net carrying values are reduced to fair values. We estimate the fair values of these long-lived assets by performing a discounted future cash flow analysis for the remaining useful life of the asset, or the remaining useful life of the primary asset in the case of an asset group. An individual asset within an asset group is not impaired below its estimated fair value.

Our operations are capital intensive. The estimates of undiscounted future cash flows used during an impairment review of a long-lived asset or asset group require judgments and assumptions of future cash flows that are expected to arise as a direct result of the use and eventual disposition of the asset or asset group. If these assets were for sale, our estimates of their values could be significantly different because of market conditions, specific transaction terms and a buyer's perspective on future cash flows.

During 2023, historical and current period operating losses were determined to be triggering events for three long-lived asset groups associated with downstream fabricated rebar operations. We reviewed the undiscounted future cash flows for the long-lived asset groups for recoverability, which indicated that the net carrying values of certain ROU assets included in one long-lived asset group (consisting of $4.0 million of ROU assets and $0.5 million of equipment) were not recoverable. As such, we evaluated the ROU assets within the applicable long-lived asset group for impairment by comparing the estimated fair values of such ROU assets to their net carrying values, which resulted in a non-cash impairment of $3.5 million during the fourth quarter of 2023, included in asset impairments in the consolidated statement of earnings.

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Derivative Financial Instruments

Our global operations and product lines expose us to risks from fluctuations in metal commodity prices, foreign currency exchange rates, interest rates and natural gas, electricity and other energy prices. To limit the impact of these exposures, we enter into derivative instruments. We do not enter into derivative financial instruments for speculative purposes. We evaluate the fair value of our derivative financial instruments using an established fair value hierarchy as stated in Note 1, Nature of Operations and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report.

The Company has three Level 3 commodity derivatives which are bilateral agreements with a counterparty. The fair value estimates of the Level 3 commodity derivatives are based on an internally developed discounted cash flow model primarily utilizing unobservable inputs for which there is little or no market data. The company determined the Level 3 fair value inputs as provided for under ASC 820, consisting of information obtained from relevant published indexes and external sources along with management’s own assumptions. Fluctuations in the information used to forecast future energy rates may cause volatility in the fair value estimate and in the unrealized gains and losses in other comprehensive income. See Note 11, Fair Value, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for more information on the Level 3 commodity derivatives.

Contingencies

In the ordinary course of conducting our business, we become involved in litigation, administrative proceedings and governmental investigations, including environmental matters. We may incur settlements, fines, penalties or judgments in connection with some of these matters. While we are unable to estimate the ultimate dollar amount of exposure or loss in connection with these matters, we make accruals when a loss is probable and the amount can be reasonably estimated. The amounts we accrue could vary substantially from amounts we pay due to several factors including the following: evolving remediation technology, changing regulations, possible third-party contributions, the inherent uncertainties of the estimation process and the uncertainties involved in litigation. We believe that we have adequately provided for these contingencies in our consolidated financial statements. We also believe that the outcomes will not materially affect our results of operations, our financial position or our cash flows.

Other Accounting Policies and New Accounting Pronouncements

See Note 1, Nature of Operations and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This Annual Report contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the federal securities laws. The statements in this report that are not historical statements are forward-looking statements and address activities, events or developments that may occur in the future, including (without limitation) such matters as activities related to general economic conditions, key macro-economic drivers that impact our business, the effects of ongoing trade actions, the effects of continued pressure on the liquidity of our customers, potential synergies and organic growth provided by acquisitions and strategic investments, demand for our products, shipment volumes, metal margins, the ability to operate our steel mills at full capacity, future availability and cost of supplies of raw materials and energy for our operations, share repurchases, legal proceedings, construction activity, international trade, the impact of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, capital expenditures, tax credits, our liquidity and our ability to satisfy future liquidity requirements, estimated contractual obligations, the expected capabilities and benefits of new facilities, the timeline for execution of our growth plan and our expectations or beliefs concerning future events. These forward-looking statements can generally be identified by phrases such as we or our management "expects," "anticipates," "believes," "estimates," "future," "intends," "may," "plans to," "ought," "could," "will," "should," "likely," "appears," "projects," "forecasts," "outlook" or other similar words or phrases, as well as by discussions of strategy, plans or intentions.

Our forward-looking statements are based on management's expectations and beliefs as of the time this Annual Report is filed with the SEC or, with respect to any document incorporated by reference, as of the time such document was prepared. Although we believe that our expectations are reasonable, we can give no assurance that these expectations will prove to have been correct, and actual results may vary materially. Except as required by law, we undertake no obligation to update, amend or clarify any forward-looking statements to reflect changed assumptions, the occurrence of anticipated or unanticipated events, new information or circumstances or any other changes. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from our expectations include those described in Part I, Item 1A, Risk Factors and Part II, Item 7, Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations of this Annual Report as well as the following:

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•changes in economic conditions which affect demand for our products or construction activity generally, and the impact of such changes on the highly cyclical steel industry;

•rapid and significant changes in the price of metals, potentially impairing our inventory values due to declines in commodity prices or reducing the profitability of our downstream contracts due to rising commodity pricing;

•excess capacity in our industry, particularly in China, and product availability from competing steel mills and other steel suppliers including import quantities and pricing;

•the impact of the Russian invasion of Ukraine on the global economy, inflation, energy supplies and raw materials;

•increased attention to ESG matters, including any targets or other ESG or environmental justice initiatives;

•operating and startup risks, as well as market risks associated with the commissioning of new projects could prevent us from realizing anticipated benefits and could result in a loss of all or a substantial part of our investments;

•impacts from global public health crises on the economy, demand for our products, global supply chain and on our operations;

•compliance with and changes in existing and future laws, regulations and other legal requirements and judicial decisions that govern our business, including increased environmental regulations associated with climate change and greenhouse gas emissions;

•involvement in various environmental matters that may result in fines, penalties or judgments;

•evolving remediation technology, changing regulations, possible third-party contributions, the inherent uncertainties of the estimation process and other factors that may impact amounts accrued for environmental liabilities;

•potential limitations in our or our customers' abilities to access credit and non-compliance with their contractual obligations, including payment obligations;

•activity in repurchasing shares of our common stock under our share repurchase program;

•financial and non-financial covenants and restrictions on the operation of our business contained in agreements governing our debt;

•our ability to successfully identify, consummate and integrate acquisitions and realize any or all of the anticipated synergies or other benefits of acquisitions;

•the effects that acquisitions may have on our financial leverage;

•risks associated with acquisitions generally, such as the inability to obtain, or delays in obtaining, required approvals under applicable antitrust legislation and other regulatory and third-party consents and approvals;

•lower than expected future levels of revenues and higher than expected future costs;

•failure or inability to implement growth strategies in a timely manner;

•the impact of goodwill or other indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment charges;

•the impact of long-lived asset impairment charges;

•currency fluctuations;

•global factors, such as trade measures, military conflicts and political uncertainties, including changes to current trade regulations, such as Section 232 trade tariffs and quotas, tax legislation and other regulations which might adversely impact our business;

•availability and pricing of electricity, electrodes and natural gas for mill operations;

•our ability to hire and retain key executives and other employees;

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•our ability to manage the transition to a new chief executive officer;

•competition from other materials or from competitors that have a lower cost structure or access to greater financial resources;

•information technology interruptions and breaches in security;

•our ability to make necessary capital expenditures;

•availability and pricing of raw materials and other items over which we exert little influence, including scrap metal, energy and insurance;

•unexpected equipment failures;

•losses or limited potential gains due to hedging transactions;

•litigation claims and settlements, court decisions, regulatory rulings and legal compliance risks;

•risk of injury or death to employees, customers or other visitors to our operations; and

•civil unrest, protests and riots.

Refer to the "Risk Factors" disclosed in our periodic and current reports filed with the SEC for information regarding additional risks which would cause actual results to be significantly different from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other important factors that could cause actual results, performance or our achievements, or industry results, to differ materially from historical results, any future results, or performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Accordingly, readers of this Annual Report are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements.

ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

This Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations should be read in conjunction with our consolidated financial statements and the accompanying notes contained in this Annual Report.

Our discussion and analysis of fiscal year 2022 compared to fiscal year 2021 is included herein. Our discussion and analysis of fiscal year 2021 compared to fiscal year 2020 can be found in Part II, Item 7, Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended August 31, 2021, which was filed with the SEC on October 14, 2021.

OVERVIEW

Our vertically integrated steel-related operations manufacture, recycle and fabricate steel and metal products and provide related materials and services through a network of facilities that includes seven electric arc furnace ("EAF") mini mills, two EAF micro mills, one rerolling mill, steel fabrication and processing plants, construction-related product warehouses and metal recycling facilities in the United States and Poland. Through our Tensar operations, CMC is a leading global provider of innovative ground and soil stabilization solutions selling into more than 80 national markets through two major product lines: Tensar® geogrids and Geopier® foundation systems. Our operations are conducted through two reportable segments: North America and Europe. See Part I, Item 1, Business for further information regarding our business and reportable segments.

Key Performance Indicators

When evaluating our results for the period, we compare net sales, in the aggregate and for both of our segments, in the current period to net sales in the corresponding period of the prior year. In doing so, we focus on changes in average selling price per ton and tons shipped compared to the prior period for each of our vertically integrated product categories (raw materials, steel products and downstream products) as these are the two variables that typically have the greatest impact on our net sales. Raw

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materials include ferrous and nonferrous scrap, steel products include rebar, merchant and other steel products, such as billets and wire rod, and downstream products include fabricated rebar and steel fence posts.

Adjusted EBITDA from continuing operations ("adjusted EBITDA") is used by management to compare and evaluate the period-over-period underlying business operational performance of our segments. Adjusted EBITDA is the sum of the Company's earnings from continuing operations before interest expense, income taxes, depreciation and amortization and impairment expense. Although there are many factors that can impact a segment’s adjusted EBITDA and, therefore, our overall earnings, changes in metal margin of our steel products and downstream products period-over-period is a consistent area of focus for our Company and industry. Metal margin is a metric used by management to monitor the results of our vertically integrated organization. For our steel products, metal margin is the difference between the average selling price per ton of rebar, merchant and other steel products and the cost of ferrous scrap per ton utilized by our steel mills to produce these products. An increase or decrease in input costs can impact profitability of these products when there is no corresponding change in selling prices due to competitive pressures. The metal margin for our downstream products is the difference between the average selling price per ton of fabricated rebar and steel fence post products and the scrap input costs to produce these products. The majority of our downstream products selling prices per ton are fixed at the beginning of a project and these projects last one to two years on average. Because the selling price generally remains fixed over the life of a project, changes in input costs over the life of the project can significantly impact profitability.

BUSINESS CONDITIONS AND DEVELOPMENTS

Tensar Acquisition

On April 25, 2022 (the "Acquisition Date"), we completed the acquisition of TAC Acquisition Corp. ("Tensar") for approximately $550 million, net of cash acquired. Through its patented foundation systems, Tensar produces ground stabilization and soil reinforcement solutions that complement our existing concrete reinforcement product lines and broaden our ability to address multiple early phases of commercial and infrastructure construction, including subgrade, foundation and structures. End customers for these products include commercial, industrial and residential site developers, mining and oil and gas companies, transportation authorities, coastal and waterway authorities and waste management companies. The acquired operations within North America are presented within our North America reportable segment and the remaining acquired operations are presented within our Europe reportable segment, in each case since the Acquisition Date. See Note 2, Acquisition, in Item 8 of this Annual Report for more information about the Tensar acquisition.

Capital Expenditures

In January 2022, we announced the plan to construct a fourth micro mill geographically situated with the intention of primarily serving the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic and Mid-Western U.S. markets. This new micro mill will enhance our steel production capabilities in the U.S. and create meaningful synergies within the existing network of mills and downstream fabrication plants. Following site selection, permitting and other necessary approvals, the construction and commissioning of the planned mill is expected to take roughly two years.

In July 2021, we completed the construction of and commissioned a third rolling line at our mini mill in Poland. The third rolling line takes advantage of historical excess melting capacity in Poland, expands our overall rolling capacity and allows the rolling lines to operate independently for each steel product produced by the mini mill (rebar, merchant bar and wire rod).

In August 2020, we announced the construction of a third micro mill. This micro mill will be the first in the world with the capability to produce merchant bar quality products through a continuous production process and will employ the latest technology in EAF power supply systems which will allow us to directly connect the EAF and the ladle furnace to renewable energy sources such as solar and wind. The new facility, located in Mesa, Arizona, will replace the rebar capacity at our Rancho Cucamonga, California mill, which was sold during fiscal 2022, and will allow us to more efficiently meet West Coast demand for steel products. We began construction of the third micro mill in 2021 and expect this micro mill to be commissioned in early calendar 2023. For further details on the sale of the Rancho Cucamonga, California mill, refer to Note 3, Changes in Business, in Item 8 of this Annual Report.

Russian Invasion of Ukraine

The Russian invasion of Ukraine did not have a direct material adverse impact on our business, financial condition or results of operations during 2022. Our Europe segment has not had an interruption in energy supply and was able to identify alternate sources for a limited number of materials previously procured through Russia. However, we will continue to monitor

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disruptions in supply of energy and materials and the indirect effects on our operations of inflationary pressures, foreign exchange rate fluctuations, commodity pricing, potential cybersecurity risks and sanctions resulting from the invasion.

COVID-19

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic ("COVID-19" or "pandemic") on our operations was limited during 2022, 2021 and 2020. We continue to evaluate the nature and extent of future impacts of the evolving pandemic on our operations and are complying with applicable U.S. federal, state and local law and considering relevant guidance, including the guidelines of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and other authorities, to prioritize the health and safety of our employees, families, suppliers, customers and communities. At this time, given the dynamic and uncertain nature and duration of the pandemic, we cannot reasonably estimate the long-term impact of COVID-19 on our business, results of operations and overall financial performance.

See Part I, Item 1A, Risk Factors, in this Annual Report for further discussion related to the above business conditions and developments.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS SUMMARY

2022 Compared to 2021

Net sales during 2022 increased $2.2 billion, or 32%, compared to 2021. Net sales in our North America segment increased in 2022 compared to 2021 primarily due to a year-over-year increase in average selling prices across all of our major product lines. In North America, shipments of raw materials and downstream products increased slightly year-over-year, while shipments of steel products decreased slightly in 2022 compared to 2021. Net sales in our Europe segment also increased in 2022 compared to 2021 due to a year-over-year increase in steel products average selling prices, coupled with increased shipments of steel products. Further, the acquired Tensar operations contributed $102.1 million to the increase in net sales in 2022.

During 2022, we achieved net earnings of $1.2 billion, an increase of $804.4 million, or 195%, compared to 2021. Included in net earnings during 2022 was a $273.3 million gain on the sale of the Rancho Cucamonga facilities. See Note 3, Changes in Business, in Item 8 of this Annual Report for more information on the sale of the Rancho Cucamonga facilities. The remaining increase was primarily due to the significant margin expansion experienced on all of our major product lines. Increases in selling prices for all of our major product lines outpaced the rising input costs associated with scrap, freight, energy and other steelmaking inputs.

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses

Selling, general and administrative expenses in 2022 increased $39.9 million compared to 2021. Included in selling, general and administrative expenses in 2022 were $30.3 million of selling, general and administrative expenses resulting from Tensar's operations. The largest components of selling, general and administrative expenses from Tensar's operations were $19.4 million of labor-related expense, $2.8 million of professional services expense and $2.5 million of amortization expense resulting from acquired intangible assets. Additionally, we incurred $8.7 million of acquisition and integration expenses during 2022 with no such expenses during 2021.

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Interest Expense

Interest expense decreased $1.2 million in 2022 compared to 2021. Capitalized interest increased $9.1 million in 2022 compared to 2021 due to construction of our third micro mill, which decreased interest expense. Partially offsetting the impact of increased capitalized interest was an increase in long-term debt interest expense of $6.7 million in 2022 compared to 2021 due to the additional long-term debt outstanding in 2022 compared to 2021.

Income Taxes

Our effective income tax rate for 2022 was 19.7% compared to 22.7% for 2021. The year-over-year decrease was primarily due to tax benefits recorded during 2022 from the recognition of research and development credits and a capital loss on a restructuring transaction. These decreases were partially offset by an increase in state and local taxes due to a prior year valuation allowance benefit that did not repeat in the current year. See Note 13, Income Tax, in Item 8 of this Annual Report for further discussion of our effective tax rate.

SEGMENTS

All amounts are computed and presented in a manner that is consistent with the basis in which we internally disaggregate financial information for the purpose of making operating decisions. See Note 20, Operating Segments, in Item 8 of this Annual Report for further information on how we evaluate financial performance of our segments. The operational data by product category presented in the tables below reflects activity from sales of raw materials, steel products and downstream products, as applicable, which comprise the majority of sales in North America and Europe. The data is calculated using averages, and therefore, it is not meaningful to quantify the effect that any individual metric had on the segment's net sales or adjusted EBITDA.

2022 Compared to 2021

North America

Net sales in the North America segment increased $1.6 billion, or 29%, in 2022 compared to 2021. The increase in net sales was primarily due to increases in average selling prices of 22%, 41% and 27% for raw materials, steel products and downstream products, respectively, in 2022 compared to 2021. The year-over-year increases in average selling prices were attributed to a

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rising scrap price environment throughout the first nine months of the year and steady demand in end-use markets for our steel products driven by greater construction and industrial activity. While scrap prices decreased during the fourth quarter due to decreased export demand, the price of steel products decreased at a lesser rate. Additionally, during the second half of 2022, prices of downstream products, many of which are fixed at the beginning of the project, grew to reflect the increased input costs from rising scrap and energy prices during 2021 and 2022. Shipments of these higher priced contracts, along with consistent demand contributed by construction and industrial projects, caused increases in the year-over-year average selling prices. Net sales in 2022 were impacted to a lesser extent by shipment volumes year-over-year, which remained relatively flat for raw materials and downstream products and decreased 7% for steel products. Steel product volumes decreased slightly in 2022 compared to 2021 due to planned maintenance activities at certain of our facilities in the second and third quarters, destocking of inventory by our customers in the fourth quarter in anticipation of downward price adjustments and slowed construction activity in certain months. The slowed construction activity was caused by constrained labor at construction sites in certain geographies and weather disruptions throughout the year. Also contributing to the increase in net sales in 2022 compared to 2021 were $74.8 million of net sales from the acquired Tensar operations.

Adjusted EBITDA in 2022 increased $807.3 million compared to 2021. Included in adjusted EBITDA in 2022 was a $273.3 million gain on the sale of the Rancho Cucamonga facilities. The remaining growth in adjusted EBITDA during 2022 was primarily due to expansion of steel products metal margin per ton and downstream products margin over scrap costs compared to 2021. The price increases of steel products and downstream products described above outpaced the rising cost of goods sold, which increased 23% year-over-year due to ferrous scrap price increases during the first nine months of the year and increased costs for energy, alloys and freight.

Europe

Net sales in the Europe segment increased $572.6 million, or 55%, in 2022 compared to 2021. This increase was primarily due to a $284 per ton, or 46%, year-over-year increase in steel products average selling price driven by rising raw materials input costs and growing market demand. Volumes rose year-over-year, in part due to a surge in demand in the third quarter as a result of steel products supply disruptions across Europe caused by the Russian invasion of Ukraine. On a sequential basis, fourth quarter volumes declined compared to the third quarter as a result of market stabilization attributed to customers utilizing inventory built up during the fluctuating price environments from the current year. Volumes in 2022 also benefited from a full year of increased capacity from our third rolling line in Poland, which was commissioned in late 2021 and contributed an incremental $321.7 million to 2022 net sales. Also contributing to the increase in net sales in 2022 compared to 2021 were $27.3 million of net sales from the acquired Tensar operations. Net sales in 2022 were impacted by an unfavorable foreign currency translation adjustment of $193.6 million primarily due to the increase in the average value of the U.S. dollar relative to the Polish zloty in 2022, compared to favorable foreign currency translation adjustments of $36.9 million during 2021.

Adjusted EBITDA in 2022 increased $197.8 million, or 133%, compared to 2021, primarily driven by a $178 per ton, or 70%, expansion in steel products metal margin. Increased demand for steel products caused the increase in average selling price of steel products described above to outpace the rising costs of ferrous scrap utilized per ton. Overall, the benefit from average

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selling price increases throughout 2022 exceeded the impact of the 40% increase in Europe segment cost of goods sold year-over-year, which was driven by higher volumes and impacts of inflation on energy and alloys. Our Europe segment continues to face an environment of rising energy costs, mitigated in part by our electricity commodity derivative and natural gas commitments. Our electricity commodity derivative resulted in a $21.7 million realized gain in 2022, recorded as a reduction to cost of goods sold, compared to a $2.4 million realized gain in 2021. See Note 11, Derivatives, in Item 8 of this Annual Report for further information on the electricity commodity derivative. Adjusted EBITDA in 2022 was impacted by unfavorable foreign currency exchange rate impacts of $39.9 million, compared to favorable foreign currency translation adjustments of $5.1 million during 2021.

Corporate and Other

Corporate and Other adjusted EBITDA loss in 2022 increased by $13.5 million compared to 2021. The year-over-year increase was driven in part by $8.7 million of acquisition-related costs in 2022, with no such costs in 2021, coupled with a $9.4 million year-over-year increase in labor-related expenses.

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

Sources of Liquidity and Capital Resources

Our cash flows from operating activities are our principal sources of liquidity and result primarily from sales of raw materials, steel products, downstream products and related materials and services, as described in Part I, Item 1, Business, of this Annual Report. Historically, our North America operations have generated the majority of our cash. At August 31, 2022, cash and cash equivalents of $36.3 million were held by our non-U.S. subsidiaries. We use futures or forward contracts to mitigate the risks from fluctuations in metal commodity prices, foreign currency exchange rates, interest rates and natural gas, electricity and other energy commodity prices. See Note 11, Derivatives, in Item 8 of this Annual Report for further information.

We have a diverse and generally stable customer base, and regularly maintain a substantial amount of accounts receivable. We actively monitor our accounts receivable and, based on market conditions and customers' financial condition, record allowances when we believe accounts are uncollectible. We use credit insurance internationally to mitigate the risk of customer insolvency. We estimate that the amount of credit-insured receivables (and those covered by export letters of credit) was approximately 16% of total receivables at August 31, 2022.

The table below reflects our sources, facilities and availability of liquidity as of August 31, 2022. See Note 9, Credit Arrangements, in Item 8 of this Annual Report for additional information.

__________________________________

(1) We believe we have access to additional financing and refinancing, if needed, although we can make no assurances as to the form or terms of such financing.

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We continually review our capital resources to determine whether we can meet our short and long-term goals. We anticipate our current cash balances, cash flows from operations and available sources of liquidity will be sufficient to maintain operations, make necessary capital expenditures, repay current maturities of long-term debt, including our $330.0 million aggregate principal amount of 4.875% Senior Notes due in May 2023, pay dividends and opportunistically repurchase shares for at least the next twelve months. Additionally, we expect our long-term liquidity position will be sufficient to meet our long-term liquidity needs with cash flows from operations and financing arrangements. However, in the event of changes in business conditions or other developments, including a sustained market deterioration, unanticipated regulatory developments, significant acquisitions, competitive pressures, or to the extent our liquidity needs prove to be greater than expected or cash generated from operations is less than anticipated, we may need additional liquidity. To the extent we elect to finance our long-term liquidity needs, we believe that the potential financing capital available to us in the future is sufficient.

We estimate that our 2023 capital spending will range from $450 million to $500 million. We regularly assess our capital spending based on current and expected results and the amount is subject to change.

As of August 31, 2022 and 2021, we had no off-balance sheet arrangements that may have a current or future material effect on our financial condition, revenues or expenses, results of operations, liquidity, capital expenditures or capital resources.

2022 Compared to 2021

Operating Activities

Net cash flows from operating activities were $700.3 million and $228.5 million in 2022 and 2021, respectively. This $471.8 million increase in net cash flows from operating activities was primarily driven by an increase in net earnings of $804.4 million, or $537.8 million after excluding the $266.6 million increase in net gain on disposal of assets. See Note 3, Changes in Business, in Item 8 of this Annual Report for more information on the sale of the Rancho Cucamonga facilities that resulted in the majority of the increase in net gain on disposal of assets year-over-year. Also contributing to the increase in net cash flows from operating activities was a $126.0 million year-over-year increase in deferred income taxes, which represents a non-cash charge to the income statement. See Note 13, Income Tax, in Item 8 of this Annual Report for more information on the change in deferred taxes. These increases in net cash flows from operating activities were partially offset by a $208.1 million year-over-year net increase in cash used by operating assets and liabilities. Accounts payable increased significantly year-over-year in 2021 compared to a slight decrease in 2022, primarily due to the rising cost of scrap at the end of 2021, which stabilized near the end of 2022. This contributed to a year-over-year $190.9 million reduction in cash from accounts payable, accrued expenses and other payables, offset, in part, by a corresponding $61.1 million reduction in cash used to fund inventory purchases. Increased sales year-over-year also contributed to a net increase of $29.6 million of cash used by accounts receivable. The remaining $48.8 million increase in cash used by other operating assets and liabilities was primarily due to increased prices of production inputs. Operating working capital days, which represents the number of days to convert accounts receivable and inventory, less accounts payable, into net sales, increased eight days year-over-year.

Investing Activities

Net cash flows used by investing activities were $684.7 million and $162.1 million in 2022 and 2021, respectively, an increase of $522.6 million. Such increase was primarily impacted by the acquisition of Tensar for a cash purchase price of approximately $550 million, net of cash acquired, as well as increased capital expenditures of $265.8 million, mostly from the construction of our third micro mill. See Note 2, Acquisition, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for more information about the acquisition. These increases in cash outflows were offset, in part, by gross proceeds of $313.0 million from the sale of the Rancho Cucamonga facilities.

Financing Activities

Net cash flows from financing activities were $165.3 million in 2022, compared to net cash flows used by financing activities of $109.4 million in 2021. The $274.7 million increase in net cash flows from financing activities was a result of many actions, including net proceeds from long-term debt of $414.8 million during 2022, compared to net long-term debt repayments of $59.2 million during 2021. Net borrowings under our accounts receivable facilities were $6.3 million during 2022 compared to $26.7 million during 2021, a decrease of $20.4 million. See Note 9, Credit Arrangements in Item 8 of this Annual Report for more information regarding our credit arrangements and 2022 debt proceeds and repayments. Partially offsetting these cash flows from financing activities was $161.9 million of treasury stock repurchased under the share repurchase program in 2022, with no such activity in 2021, $10.0 million in increased dividend payments and a $6.3 million increase attributable to tax withholdings

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related to share settlements, net of purchase plans. See Note 16, Capital Stock in Item 8 of this Annual Report for more information on the share repurchase program.

Contractual Obligations and Commitments

Our material cash commitments from known contractual and other obligations primarily consist of obligations for long-term debt and related interest, leases for properties and equipment and purchase obligations as part of normal operations. See Note 9, Credit Arrangements, in Item 8 of this Annual Report for more information regarding scheduled maturities of our long-term debt. See Note 8, Leases, in Item 8 of this Annual Report for additional information on leases. Interest payable on our long-term debt was $64.7 million due in the twelve months following August 31, 2022 and $433.7 million due thereafter. Additionally, the Company has a U.S. federal repatriation tax obligation resulting from the repatriation tax provisions of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act ("TCJA"), of which $2.2 million was due in the twelve months following August 31, 2022 and $16.6 million due thereafter.

As of August 31, 2022, our undiscounted purchase obligations were approximately $802.0 million due in the next twelve months and $138.9 million due thereafter under purchase orders and "take or pay" arrangements. These purchase obligations include all enforceable, legally binding agreements to purchase goods or services that specify all significant terms, regardless of the duration of the agreement, and exclude agreements with variable terms for which we are unable to estimate the minimum amounts. The "take or pay" arrangements are multi-year commitments with minimum annual purchase requirements and are entered into primarily for purchases of commodities used in operations such as electrodes and natural gas.

Of the purchase obligations due within the twelve months following August 31, 2022, approximately 29% were for the construction of our third micro mill, 22% were for consumable production inputs, such as alloys, 20% were for commodities and 10% were for capital expenditures on operating machinery and equipment. Of the purchase obligations due thereafter, 77% are for commodities and 7% are for the construction of our third micro mill. The remainder of the purchase obligations are for goods and services in the normal course of business.

We provide certain eligible employees benefits pursuant to our nonqualified Benefit Restoration Plan ("BRP") equal to amounts that would have been available under our tax qualified plans under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended ("ERISA"), but for limitations of ERISA, tax laws and regulations. We did not include estimated payments related to the BRP in the above description of contractual obligations and commitments. Refer to Note 15, Employees' Retirement Plans, in Item 8 of this Annual Report for more information on the BRP.

Other Commercial Commitments

We maintain stand-by letters of credit to provide support for certain transactions that governmental agencies, our insurance providers and suppliers require. At August 31, 2022, we had committed $21.6 million under these arrangements, of which $1.4 million reduced availability under the Revolver (as defined in Note 9, Credit Arrangements, in Item 8 of this Annual Report).

CONTINGENCIES

In the ordinary course of conducting our business, we become involved in litigation, administrative proceedings and governmental investigations, including environmental matters. We may incur settlements, fines, penalties or judgments because of some of these matters. Liabilities and costs associated with litigation-related loss contingencies require estimates and judgments based on our knowledge of the facts and circumstances surrounding each matter and the advice of our legal counsel. We record liabilities for litigation-related losses when a loss is probable and we can reasonably estimate the amount of the loss. We evaluate the measurement of recorded liabilities each reporting period based on the current facts and circumstances specific to each matter. The ultimate losses incurred upon final resolution of litigation-related loss contingencies may differ materially from the estimated liability recorded at a particular balance sheet date. Changes in estimates are recorded in earnings in the period in which such changes occur. We do not believe that any currently pending legal proceedings to which we are a party will have a material adverse effect, individually or in the aggregate, on our results of operations, cash flows or financial condition. See Note 18, Commitments and Contingencies, in Item 8 of this Annual Report for more information.

Environmental and Other Matters

The information set forth in Note 18, Commitments and Contingencies, in Item 8 of this Annual Report is hereby incorporated by reference.

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General

We are subject to federal, state and local pollution control laws and regulations in all locations where we have operating facilities. We anticipate that compliance with these laws and regulations will involve continuing capital expenditures and operating costs.

Metals recycling was our original business, and it has been one of our core businesses for over a century. In the present era of conservation of natural resources and ecological concerns, we are committed to sound ecological and business conduct. Certain governmental regulations regarding environmental concerns, however well-intentioned, may expose us and our industry to potentially significant risks. We believe that recycled materials are commodities that are diverted by recyclers, such as us, from the solid waste streams because of their inherent value. They are identified, purchased, sorted, processed and sold in accordance with carefully established industry specifications.

We incurred environmental expenses of approximately $44.2 million, $49.8 million and $46.6 million for 2022, 2021 and 2020, respectively. The expenses included the cost of disposal, environmental personnel at various divisions, permit and license fees, accruals and payments for studies, tests, assessments, remediation, consultant fees, baghouse dust removal and various other expenses. In addition, during 2022, we spent approximately $6.9 million in capital expenditures related to costs directly associated with environmental compliance. Our accrued environmental liabilities were $5.3 million and $7.1 million as of August 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively, of which $2.0 million and $2.3 million, respectively, were classified as other noncurrent liabilities.

Solid and Hazardous Waste

We generate wastes, including hazardous wastes, that are subject to the Federal Resource Conservation and Recovery Act and comparable state and local statutes where we operate. These statutes, regulations and laws may limit our disposal options with respect to certain wastes.

We currently own or lease, and in the past we have owned or leased, properties that have been used in our operations. Although we have used operating and disposal practices that were industry standard at the time, wastes may have been disposed of or released on or under the properties or on or under locations where such wastes have been taken for disposal in a manner that is now understood to pose a contamination threat. We are currently involved in the investigation and remediation of several such properties, and we have been named as a PRP at a number of contaminated sites, none of which involve real estate we ever owned or upon which we have ever conducted operations.

State and federal laws applicable to wastes and contaminated properties have gradually become more strict over time. There is no guarantee that the EPA or individual states will not adopt more stringent requirements for the handling of, or make changes to the exemptions upon which we rely for, the wastes that we generate. Similarly, some materials which are not currently classified as waste may be deemed solid or hazardous waste in the future. Under new laws, we could be required to remediate properties impacted by previously disposed wastes. Any such change could result in an increase in our costs to manage and dispose of waste which could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of our operations and financial condition.

Superfund

The EPA, or an equivalent state agency, has notified us that we are considered a PRP at several sites, none of which involve real estate we ever owned or upon which we have ever conducted operations. We may be obligated under CERCLA, or similar state statutes, to conduct remedial investigation, feasibility studies, remediation and/or removal of alleged releases of hazardous substances or to reimburse the EPA or third parties for such activities and pay costs for associated damages to natural resources. We are involved in litigation or administrative proceedings with regard to several of these sites in which we are contesting, or at the appropriate time may contest, our liability. In addition, we have received information requests with regard to other sites which may be under consideration by the EPA as potential CERCLA sites. Because of various factors, including the ambiguity of the regulations, the difficulty of identifying the responsible parties for any particular site, the complexity of determining the relative liability among them, the uncertainty as to the most desirable remediation techniques and the amount of damages and cleanup costs, and the extended time periods over which such costs may be incurred, we cannot reasonably estimate our ultimate costs of compliance with CERCLA. Based on currently available information, which is in many cases preliminary and incomplete, we had immaterial amounts accrued as of both August 31, 2022 and 2021, in connection with CERCLA sites. We have accrued for these liabilities based upon our best estimates. The amounts paid and the expenses incurred on these sites for 2022, 2021 and 2020 were not material. Historically, the amounts that we have ultimately paid for such remediation activities have not been material.

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Management believes that adequate provisions have been made in the Company's consolidated financial statements for the potential impact of these contingencies, and that the outcomes of the suits and proceedings described above, and other miscellaneous litigation and proceedings now pending, will not have a material adverse effect on the business, results of operations or financial condition of the Company.

Clean Water Regulation

The Clean Water Act ("CWA") imposes restrictions and strict controls regarding the discharge of wastes into waters of the U.S., a term broadly defined, or into publicly owned treatment works. These controls have become more stringent over time, and it is probable that additional restrictions will be imposed in the future. Permits must generally be obtained to discharge pollutants into federal waters or into publicly owned treatment works and comparable permits may be required at the state level. The CWA and many state statutes provide for civil, criminal and administrative penalties for unauthorized discharges of pollutants. In addition, the EPA's regulations and comparable state statutes may require us to obtain permits to discharge storm water runoff. In the event of an unauthorized discharge or non-compliance with permit requirements, we may be liable for penalties, costs and injunctive relief.

Clean Air Act

Our operations are subject to regulations at the federal, state and local level for the control of emissions from sources of air pollution. New and modified sources of air pollutants are often required to obtain permits prior to commencing construction, modification or operations. Major sources of air pollutants are subject to more stringent requirements, including the potential need for additional permits and to increase scrutiny in the context of enforcement. The EPA has been implementing its stationary emission control program through expanded enforcement of the New Source Review Program. Under this program, new or modified sources may be required to construct emission sources using what is referred to as the Best Available Control Technology, or in any areas that are not meeting NAAQS, using methods that satisfy requirements for the Lowest Achievable Emission Rate. Additionally, the EPA has implemented, and is continuing to implement, new, more stringent standards for NAAQS, including fine particulate matter. Compliance with new standards could require additional expenditures.

Climate Change

The potential impacts of climate change on the Company’s business and results of operations and potential future climate change regulations in the jurisdictions in which the Company operates are highly uncertain. See the risk factors entitled “Increased regulation associated with climate change could impose significant additional costs on both our steelmaking and metals recycling operations” and "Physical impacts of climate change could have a material adverse effect on our costs and operations" in Part I, Item 1A, Risk Factors, of this Annual Report.

DIVIDENDS

We paid quarterly dividends in 2022 at the rate of $0.14 per share of CMC common stock, compared to quarterly dividends paid in 2021 at the rate of $0.12 per share of CMC common stock. On October 11, 2022, the Board of Directors declared CMC's 232nd quarterly cash dividend. The dividend was declared at the rate of $0.16 per share of CMC common stock and is payable on November 10, 2022 to stockholders of record as of the close of business on October 27, 2022.

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES

The preceding discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations is based upon our consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. The preparation of the consolidated financial statements requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenue and expenses and related disclosure of contingent liabilities. We evaluate the appropriateness of these estimates and assumptions, including those related to revenue recognition, income taxes, inventory cost, acquisitions, goodwill and other intangible assets, long-lived assets, derivative instruments and contingencies, on an ongoing basis. Estimates and assumptions are based on historical experience and on various other assumptions that we believe to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying value of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Accordingly, actual results in future periods could differ materially from these estimates. Judgments and estimates related to critical accounting policies used in the preparation of the consolidated financial statements include the following.

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Revenue Recognition

Revenue from contracts where the Company provides fabricated rebar and installation services is recognized over time using an input method based on costs incurred compared to total estimated costs. Revenue from contracts where the Company does not provide installation services is recognized over time using an output method based on tons shipped compared to total estimated tons. Significant judgment is required to evaluate total estimated costs used in the input method and total estimated tons in the output method. If total estimated costs on any contract are greater than the net contract revenues, the Company recognizes the entire estimated loss in the period the loss becomes known. The cumulative effect of revisions to estimates related to net contract revenues, costs to complete or total planned quantity is recorded in the period in which such revisions are identified. The Company does not exercise significant judgment in determining the transaction price. See Note 5, Revenue Recognition, in Item 8 of this Annual Report for further details.

Income Taxes

We periodically assess the likelihood of realizing our deferred tax assets and maintain a valuation allowance to reduce certain deferred tax assets to amounts that we believe are more likely than not to be realized. We base our judgment of the recoverability of our deferred tax assets primarily on historical earnings, our estimate of current and expected future earnings, prudent and feasible tax planning strategies and current and future ownership changes. At August 31, 2022 and 2021, we had a valuation allowance of $268.5 million and $278.1 million, respectively, against our deferred tax assets. Of these amounts, $8.4 million and $7.7 million at August 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively, relate to net operating loss and credit carryforwards in certain state jurisdictions that are subject to estimation. The remaining valuation allowance primarily relates to net operating loss carryforwards in certain foreign jurisdictions, which the Company does not expect to realize.

Inventory Cost

We state inventories at the lower of cost or net realizable value, which is defined as estimated selling prices in the ordinary course of business, less reasonably predictable costs of completion, disposal and transportation. Adjustments to inventory may be due to changes in price levels, obsolescence, damage, physical deterioration and other causes. Any adjustments required to reduce the carrying value of inventory to net realizable value are recorded as a charge to cost of goods sold. Based on our review of inventories, obsolete or slow-moving inventories are not significant as of August 31, 2022 and current market conditions are favorable in our end-use markets.

Acquisitions

The Company accounts for business combinations under the acquisition method of accounting, which requires assets acquired and liabilities assumed to be recorded at their estimated fair value at the date of acquisition. The fair value is estimated by the Company using valuation techniques and Level 3 inputs, including expected future cash flows and discount rates. The excess of purchase price over the fair value amounts assigned to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed, if any, is recorded as goodwill. Determining the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed involves the use of significant estimates and assumptions. See Note 2, Acquisition, in Item 8 of this Annual Report for more information about the Tensar acquisition.

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets

Goodwill and indefinite lived intangible assets are tested for impairment annually as of the first day of the Company’s fourth quarter, or more frequently whenever events or circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable. Goodwill is tested at the reporting unit level, which represents an operating segment or one level below an operating segment. When assessing the recoverability of goodwill and other indefinite lived intangible assets, the Company may first assess qualitative factors in determining whether it is more likely than not that the respective fair value is less than its carrying amount. The qualitative evaluation is an assessment of multiple factors, including the current operating environment, financial performance and market considerations. The Company may elect to bypass this qualitative assessment for some or all of its reporting units or other indefinite lived intangible assets and perform a quantitative test, based on management's judgment. If the Company chooses to bypass the qualitative assessment, it performs a quantitative test by comparing the fair value of the reporting units or indefinite lived intangible assets to their respective carrying amounts and records an impairment charge if the carrying amount exceeds the fair value; however, the loss recognized, if any, will not exceed the total amount of the intangible asset or the goodwill allocated to a reporting unit.

When assessing the recoverability of goodwill using a quantitative approach we use an income and a market approach to calculate the fair value of the reporting unit. To calculate the fair value of a reporting unit using the income approach,

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management uses a discounted cash flow model, which includes a number of significant assumptions and estimates regarding future cash flows such as discount rates, volumes, prices, capital expenditures and the impact of current market conditions. The market approach estimates fair value based on market multiples of earnings derived from comparable publicly traded companies with similar operating and investment characteristics as the reporting unit. The estimates used during a quantitative approach to test goodwill could be materially impacted by adverse changes in market conditions.

For 2022 and 2021, the annual goodwill impairment analyses did not result in impairment charges. As of August 31, 2022, the Company had goodwill of $249.0 million, of which $183.7 million resulted from the Tensar acquisition and $56.9 million relates to a reporting unit within the North America operating segment. In 2022, other than the reporting unit with $56.9 million of goodwill within the North America operating segment, management tested all reporting units using a qualitative approach and determined it was more likely than not that their fair values exceeded the respective carrying values. The reporting unit with $56.9 million of goodwill in the North America operating segment was tested using a quantitative approach and the resulting fair value exceeded its carrying value by 18%, which the Company believes is substantially in excess of carrying value. An increase or decrease of 1% to the discount rate or terminal growth rate would not result in an impairment charge for this reporting unit.

As of August 31, 2022, the Company had indefinite lived intangible assets of $56.0 million, all of which resulted from the Tensar acquisition. In 2022, the indefinite lived intangible assets were tested for impairment using a qualitative approach. Based on the Company’s annual impairment testing of the indefinite lived intangible assets, we concluded it is more likely than not that their fair values exceeded the respective carrying values. Based on the results of impairment tests performed in 2022, management does not believe that it is reasonably likely that our reporting units or indefinite lived intangible assets will fail their respective impairment tests in the near term. See Note 7, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets, in Item 8 of this Annual Report for additional information.

Long-Lived Assets

We evaluate the carrying value of property, plant and equipment and finite-lived intangible assets whenever a change in circumstances indicates that the net carrying value may not be recoverable from the undiscounted future cash flows from operations. Events or circumstances that could trigger an impairment review of a long-lived asset or asset group include, but are not limited to: (i) a significant decrease in the market price of the asset, (ii) a significant adverse change in the extent or manner that the asset is used or in its physical condition, (iii) a significant adverse change in legal factors or in the business climate that could affect the value of the asset, (iv) an accumulation of costs significantly in excess of original expectation for the acquisition or construction of the asset, (v) a current period operating or cash flow loss combined with a history of operating or cash flow losses or a forecast of continuing losses associated with the use of the asset and (vi) a more-likely-than-not expectation that the asset will be sold or disposed of significantly before the end of its previously estimated useful life. If an impairment exists, the net carrying values are reduced to fair values. Our operations are capital intensive. The estimates of undiscounted future cash flows used during an impairment review of a long-lived asset or asset group require judgments and assumptions of future cash flows that are expected to arise as a direct result of the use and eventual disposition of the asset or asset group. If these assets were for sale, our estimates of their values could be significantly different because of market conditions, specific transaction terms and a buyer's perspective on future cash flows. During 2022, there were no events or circumstances that triggered an impairment review.

Derivative Financial Instruments

Our global operations and product lines expose us to risks from fluctuations in metal commodity prices, foreign currency exchange rates, interest rates and natural gas, electricity and other energy prices. To limit the impact of these exposures, we enter into derivative instruments. We do not enter into derivative financial instruments for speculative purposes. We evaluate the fair value of our derivative financial instruments using an established fair value hierarchy as stated in Note 1, Nature of Operations and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, in Item 8 of this Annual Report. One derivative instrument is a commodity derivative for which the fair value estimate is based on an internally developed discounted cash flow model primarily utilizing Level 3 unobservable inputs for which there is little or no market data. The company determined the Level 3 fair value inputs as provided for under ASC 820, consisting of information obtained from relevant published indexes and external sources along with management’s own assumptions. Fluctuations in the information used to forecast future energy rates may cause volatility in the fair value estimate and in the unrealized gains and losses in other comprehensive income. See Note 12, Fair Value, in Item 8 of this Annual Report for more information on the Level 3 commodity derivative.

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Contingencies

In the ordinary course of conducting our business, we become involved in litigation, administrative proceedings and governmental investigations, including environmental matters. We may incur settlements, fines, penalties or judgments in connection with some of these matters. While we are unable to estimate the ultimate dollar amount of exposure or loss in connection with these matters, we make accruals when a loss is probable and the amount can be reasonably estimated. The amounts we accrue could vary substantially from amounts we pay due to several factors including the following: evolving remediation technology, changing regulations, possible third-party contributions, the inherent uncertainties of the estimation process and the uncertainties involved in litigation. We believe that we have adequately provided for these contingencies in our consolidated financial statements. We also believe that the outcomes will not materially affect our results of operations, our financial position or our cash flows.

Other Accounting Policies and New Accounting Pronouncements

See Note 1, Nature of Operations and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, in Item 8 of this Annual Report.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This Annual Report contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the federal securities laws with respect to general economic conditions, key macro-economic drivers that impact our business, the impact of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the effects of ongoing trade actions, the effects of continued pressure on the liquidity of our customers, potential synergies and organic growth provided by acquisitions and strategic investments, demand for our products, metal margins, the effect of COVID-19 and related governmental and economic responses thereto, the ability to operate our steel mills at full capacity, future availability and cost of supplies of raw materials and energy for our operations, share repurchases, legal proceedings, construction activity, international trade, capital expenditures, tax credits, our liquidity and our ability to satisfy future liquidity requirements, estimated contractual obligations, the expected capabilities and benefits of new facilities, the timeline for execution of our growth plan, and our expectations or beliefs concerning future events. The statements in this report that are not historical statements, are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements can generally be identified by phrases such as we or our management "expects," "anticipates," "believes," "estimates," "future," "intends," "may," "plans to," "ought," "could," "will," "should," "likely," "appears," "projects," "forecasts," "outlook" or other similar words or phrases, as well as by discussions of strategy, plans, or intentions.

Our forward-looking statements are based on management's expectations and beliefs as of the time this Annual Report is filed with the SEC or, with respect to any document incorporated by reference, as of the time such document was prepared. Although we believe that our expectations are reasonable, we can give no assurance that these expectations will prove to have been correct, and actual results may vary materially. Except as required by law, we undertake no obligation to update, amend or clarify any forward-looking statements to reflect changed assumptions, the occurrence of anticipated or unanticipated events, new information or circumstances or any other changes. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from our expectations include those described in Part I, Item 1A, Risk Factors of this Annual Report as well as the following:

•changes in economic conditions which affect demand for our products or construction activity generally, and the impact of such changes on the highly cyclical steel industry;

•rapid and significant changes in the price of metals, potentially impairing our inventory values due to declines in commodity prices or reducing the profitability of our downstream contracts due to rising commodity pricing;

•impacts from COVID-19 on the economy, demand for our products, global supply chain and on our operations, including the responses of governmental authorities to contain COVID-19 and the impact of various COVID-19 vaccines;

•excess capacity in our industry, particularly in China, and product availability from competing steel mills and other steel suppliers including import quantities and pricing;

•the impact of the Russian invasion of Ukraine on the global economy, energy supplies and raw materials, which is uncertain, but may prove to negatively impact our business and operations;

•increased attention to environmental, social and governance ("ESG") matters, including any targets or other ESG or environmental justice initiatives;

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•compliance with and changes in existing and future laws, regulations and other legal requirements and judicial decisions that govern our business, including increased environmental regulations associated with climate change and greenhouse gas emissions;

•involvement in various environmental matters that may result in fines, penalties or judgments;

•evolving remediation technology, changing regulations, possible third-party contributions, the inherent uncertainties of the estimation process and other factors that may impact amounts accrued for environmental liabilities;

•potential limitations in our or our customers' abilities to access credit and non-compliance of their contractual obligations, including payment obligations;

•activity in repurchasing shares of our common stock under our repurchase program;

•financial covenants and restrictions on the operation of our business contained in agreements governing our debt;

•our ability to successfully identify, consummate and integrate acquisitions and realize any or all of the anticipated synergies or other benefits of acquisitions;

•the effects that acquisitions may have on our financial leverage;

•risks associated with acquisitions generally, such as the inability to obtain, or delays in obtaining, required approvals under applicable antitrust legislation and other regulatory and third party consents and approvals;

•operating and startup risks, as well as market risks associated with the commissioning of new projects could prevent us from realizing anticipated benefits and could result in a loss of all or a substantial part of our investments;

•lower than expected future levels of revenues and higher than expected future costs;

•failure or inability to implement growth strategies in a timely manner;

•impact of goodwill or other indefinite lived intangible asset impairment charges;

•impact of long-lived asset impairment charges;

•currency fluctuations;

•global factors, such as trade measures, military conflicts and political uncertainties, including changes to current trade regulations, such as Section 232 trade tariffs and quotas, tax legislation and other regulations which might adversely impact our business;

•availability and pricing of electricity, electrodes and natural gas for mill operations;

•ability to hire and retain key executives and other employees;

•competition from other materials or from competitors that have a lower cost structure or access to greater financial resources;

•information technology interruptions and breaches in security;

•ability to make necessary capital expenditures;

•availability and pricing of raw materials and other items over which we exert little influence, including scrap metal, energy and insurance;

•unexpected equipment failures;

•losses or limited potential gains due to hedging transactions;

•litigation claims and settlements, court decisions, regulatory rulings and legal compliance risks;

•risk of injury or death to employees, customers or other visitors to our operations; and

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•civil unrest, protests and riots.

You should refer to the "Risk Factors" disclosed in our periodic and current reports filed with the SEC for information regarding additional risks which would cause actual results to be significantly different from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other important factors that could cause actual results, performance or our achievements, or industry results, to differ materially from historical results, any future results, or performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Accordingly, readers of this Annual Report are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements.

ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

This Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations should be read in conjunction with our consolidated financial statements and the accompanying notes contained in this Annual Report.

Our discussion and analysis of fiscal year 2021 compared to fiscal year 2020 is included herein. Our discussion and analysis of fiscal year 2020 compared to fiscal year 2019 can be found in Part II, Item 7, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended August 31, 2020, which was filed with the SEC on October 15, 2020.

OVERVIEW

As a vertically integrated organization, we manufacture, recycle and fabricate steel and metal products and provide related materials and services through a network including seven EAF mini mills, two EAF micro mills, one rerolling mill, steel fabrication and processing plants, construction-related product warehouses and metal recycling facilities in the U.S. and Poland. Our operations are conducted through two reportable segments: North America and Europe. See Part I, Item 1, "Business" for further information regarding our business and reportable segments.

When considering our results for the period, we evaluate our operating performance by comparing our net sales, in the aggregate and for both of our segments, in the current period to net sales in the corresponding period in the prior year. In doing so, we focus on changes in average selling price per ton and tons shipped for each of our product categories as these are the two variables that typically have the greatest impact on our results of operations. We group our products into three categories: raw materials, steel products and downstream products. Raw materials include ferrous and nonferrous scrap, steel products include rebar, merchant and other steel products, such as billets and wire rod, and downstream products include fabricated rebar and steel fence posts.

Key Performance Indicators

Adjusted EBITDA from continuing operations ("adjusted EBITDA") is used by management to compare and evaluate the period-over-period underlying business operational performance of our segments. Adjusted EBITDA is the sum of the Company's earnings from continuing operations before interest expense, income taxes, depreciation and amortization and impairment expense. Although there are many factors that can impact a segment’s adjusted EBITDA and, therefore, our overall earnings, changes in metal margin of our steel products and downstream products period-over-period is a consistent area of focus for our Company and industry. Metal margin is a metric used by management to monitor the results of our vertically integrated organization. For our steel products, metal margin is the difference between the average selling price per ton of rebar, merchant and other steel products and the cost of ferrous scrap per ton utilized by our steel mills to produce these products. An increase or decrease in input costs can impact profitability of these products when there is no corresponding change in selling prices due to competitive pressures. The metal margin for our downstream products is the difference between the average selling price per ton of fabricated rebar and steel fence post products and the scrap input costs to produce these products. The majority of our downstream products selling prices per ton are fixed at the beginning of a project and these projects last one to two years on average. Because the selling price generally remains fixed over the life of a project, changes in input costs over the life of the project can significantly impact profitability.

Impact of COVID-19

COVID-19 resulted in various government actions globally, including governmental actions in both the U.S. and Poland, designed to slow the spread of the virus. However, because we operate in a critical infrastructure industry, our facilities were allowed to remain open. While we implemented new procedures to support the safety of our employees, the costs were not material. Due to the impact of COVID-19 on the broader economy, average selling prices per ton and volumes decreased for certain product categories during the second half of 2020. However, net sales and volumes in the second half of 2020 were relatively consistent with, or higher than, net sales and volumes in the first half of 2020, and COVID-19 had limited impact on our operations during 2021.

We continue to evaluate the nature and extent of future impacts of the evolving pandemic on our operations and are complying with applicable state and local law and are taking into consideration relevant guidance, including the guidelines of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and other authorities, to prioritize the health and safety of our employees, families, suppliers,

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customers and communities. Given the dynamic and uncertain nature and duration of the pandemic, we cannot reasonably estimate the long-term impact of COVID-19 on our business, results of operations and overall financial performance.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS SUMMARY

The following discussion of our results of operations is based on our continuing operations and excludes any results of our discontinued operations.

2021 Compared to 2020

Net sales for 2021 increased $1.3 billion, or 23%, compared to 2020. Net sales in our North America segment increased in 2021 compared to 2020, primarily due to a year-over-year increase in steel products average selling prices and raw materials average selling prices, along with a corresponding increase in shipments of steel products and raw materials. Net sales in our Europe segment also increased due to a year-over-year increase in steel products average selling prices in 2021 compared to 2020, coupled with increased shipments of steel products.

Earnings from continuing operations for 2021 increased by $134.6 million, or 48%, compared to 2020, primarily due to year-over-year increases in steel products metal margin per ton in both our North America and Europe segments and an increase in raw materials margin per ton in our North America segment. This increase was partially offset by a year-over-year decrease in downstream products metal margin in our North America segment.

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses

Selling, general and administrative expenses in 2021 decreased $6.5 million compared to 2020. Included in selling, general and administrative expenses in 2020 was a $32.1 million working capital adjustment related to the Acquisition, as defined in Note 2, Changes in Business, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report, recorded subsequent to the end of the allowable one-year measurement period, with no such expense recorded during 2021. During 2021 we experienced a year-over-year increase of $26.5 million in labor-related expenses, which fluctuated due to our increased results in 2021.

Interest Expense

Interest expense in 2021 decreased $9.9 million compared to 2020. Of the year-over-year decrease, $5.0 million resulted from the lower interest rate on the 2031 Notes, which were outstanding during the six months ended August 31, 2021, compared to the interest rate on the 2026 Notes, which were outstanding during the corresponding period in 2020. Additionally, during 2020 we incurred interest expense of $4.7 million related to a term loan which was repaid in the year ended August 31, 2020.

Income Taxes

Our effective income tax rate for 2021 was 22.7% compared to 24.9% for 2020. The year-over-year decrease was primarily due to tax benefits recorded during 2021 associated with the release of state valuation allowances as well as a release of uncertain tax positions due to a lapse in a statute of limitations. These decreases were partially offset by an increase to global intangible low-taxed income expense recorded in 2021 related to a global tax restructuring. See Note 12, Income Tax, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report, for further discussion of our effective tax rate.

SEGMENTS

All amounts are computed and presented in a manner that is consistent with the basis in which we internally disaggregate financial information for the purpose of making operating decisions. See Note 19, Operating Segments, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report, for further information on how we evaluate financial performance of our segments.

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2021 Compared to 2020

North America

Net sales in 2021 increased $901.0 million, or 19%, compared to 2020. The increase in net sales was due, in part, to increased demand in our end-use markets for steel products driven by greater construction and industrial activity in 2021 compared to 2020. Our external tons shipped for raw materials and steel products both increased 8% as a result of the rise in demand. Additionally, increasing ferrous scrap prices throughout 2021 contributed to year-over-year increases of 55% and 22% for raw materials average selling prices per ton and steel products average selling prices per ton, respectively. Net sales for 2021 and 2020 included amortization benefit of $6.0 million and $29.4 million, respectively, related to the unfavorable contract backlog of the Acquired Businesses.

Adjusted EBITDA in 2021 increased $85.4 million compared to 2020. The year-over-year increase in adjusted EBITDA was due to expansion in steel products metal margin per ton and raw materials margin per ton, coupled with the increase in shipments of these products as described above. While the fluctuation in scrap prices and increased demand positively impacted margins for sales of raw materials and steel products, downstream products average selling prices, many of which are fixed at the start of a project, did not keep pace with the increased input costs. Therefore, downstream products metal margin decreased in 2021 compared to 2020 and slightly offset the overall increase in year-over-year results. However, new contract bookings for downstream products during 2021 were reflective of increased input costs. Adjusted EBITDA did not include the $6.0 million or $29.4 million benefit of the amortization of the unfavorable contract backlog in 2021 or 2020, respectively. Adjusted EBITDA included non-cash stock compensation expense of $15.1 million and $12.4 million in 2021 and 2020, respectively.

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Europe

Net sales in 2021 increased $349.9 million, or 50%, compared to 2020. The increase in net sales was driven largely by growing demand for steel products from both construction and industrial end markets and a continued upturn in European manufacturing activity in 2021 compared to 2020. The increase in shipments of steel products was also due, in part, to the startup of a third rolling line during the fourth quarter of 2021. Steel products average selling prices increased $164 per ton year-over-year due to the increased demand in the market coupled with lower rebar imports into Poland in 2021 compared to 2020. Net sales in 2021 were impacted by a favorable foreign currency translation adjustment of $36.9 million due to the decrease in the average value of the U.S. dollar relative to the Polish zloty in 2021, as compared to 2020, which was impacted by an unfavorable foreign currency translation adjustment of $25.1 million.

Adjusted EBITDA in 2021 increased $86.3 million compared to 2020, primarily driven by a $53 per ton, or 26%, expansion in steel products metal margin per ton as the growing demand for steel products caused the average selling price of steel products to outpace the rising input costs of ferrous scrap utilized. Adjusted EBITDA included non-cash stock compensation expense of $2.9 million and $2.0 million in 2021 and 2020, respectively.

Corporate and Other

Corporate and Other adjusted EBITDA loss in 2021 decreased by $6.0 million compared to 2020. The year-over-year decrease was driven primarily by a $32.1 million charge in 2020 due to a working capital adjustment related to the Acquisition, with no such charge recorded during 2021. This decrease was offset in part by a $16.8 million loss on debt extinguishment recorded in 2021 related to the retirement of the 2026 Notes and a $6.4 million increase in labor-related expenses in 2021 compared to 2020. Adjusted EBITDA included non-cash stock compensation expense of $25.7 million and $17.5 million for 2021 and 2020, respectively.

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LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

Sources of Liquidity and Capital Resources

Our cash and cash equivalents position remained strong in 2021 with $497.7 million at August 31, 2021 compared to $542.1 million at August 31, 2020. Our cash flows from operations result primarily from sales of steel products and downstream products as described in Part I, Item 1, "Business." Historically, our North America operations have generated the majority of our cash. At August 31, 2021, cash and cash equivalents of $24.1 million were held by our non-U.S. subsidiaries. We use futures or forward contracts to mitigate the risks from fluctuations in metal commodity prices, foreign currency exchange rates, interest rates and natural gas, electricity and other energy commodity prices. See Note 10, Derivatives, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for further information.

We have a diverse and generally stable customer base, and regularly maintain a substantial amount of accounts receivable. We actively monitor our accounts receivable and, based on market conditions and customers' financial condition, record allowances when we believe accounts are uncollectible. We use credit insurance internationally to mitigate the risk of customer insolvency. We estimate that the amount of credit-insured receivables (and those covered by export letters of credit) was approximately 17% of total receivables at August 31, 2021.

The table below reflects our sources, facilities and availability of liquidity as of August 31, 2021. See Note 8, Credit Arrangements, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report, for additional information.

__________________________________

* We believe we have access to additional financing and refinancing, if needed.

We anticipate our current cash balances, cash flows from operations and our available sources of liquidity will be sufficient to fund operations and meet our short-term and long-term cash requirements, including our scheduled debt repayments, payments for our contractual obligations, capital expenditures, working capital needs, dividends, share repurchases and other prudent uses of our capital, as needed. However, we will continue to assess our liquidity needs. In the event of sustained market deterioration, we may need additional liquidity, which would require us to evaluate available alternatives and take appropriate actions.

As of August 31, 2021 and 2020, we had no off-balance sheet arrangements that may have a current or future material effect on our financial condition, revenues or expenses, results of operations, liquidity, capital expenditures or capital resources.

Share Repurchase Program

Under our share repurchase program, we may repurchase shares from time to time for cash in the open market or privately negotiated transactions in accordance with applicable federal securities laws. The timing and the amount of repurchases, if any, will be determined by management based on an evaluation of market conditions, capital allocation alternatives and other factors. The share repurchase program does not require us to purchase any dollar amount or number of shares of our common stock and may be modified, suspended, extended or terminated at any time without prior notice. We did not purchase any shares of common stock during 2021, 2020 or 2019. See Note 15, Capital Stock, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for further information on the share repurchase program.

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2021 Compared to 2020

Operating Activities

Net cash flows from operating activities were $228.5 million and $791.2 million in 2021 and 2020, respectively. Net earnings increased by $133.4 million year-over-year, offset by a $651.2 million year-over-year net increase in cash used by operating assets and liabilities ("working capital") and an $89.5 million year-over-year decrease in cash flows from deferred income taxes and other long-term taxes. The increase in cash used by working capital is a result of rising volumes and values of inventory and average selling prices in both of our segments. These operating changes are reflected in increased cash outflow from inventories and a rise in accounts receivable, partially offset by increased accounts payable and a nine day decrease in operating working capital days from 2021 to 2020. See Note 12, Income Tax, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report, for more information on the change in deferred taxes. Also contributing to the offset of working capital was a $23.3 million year-over-year decrease in amortization of acquired unfavorable contract backlog and a $15.1 million increase in loss on debt extinguishment.

Investing Activities

Net cash flows used by investing activities were $162.1 million and $192.9 million during 2021 and 2020, respectively. The $30.8 million decrease in net cash flows used by investing activities was primarily due to changes in acquisition and disposition activity, which resulted in a $16.2 million decline in cash outflows for acquisitions year-over-year and a $14.6 million increase in cash proceeds from the sale of property, plant and equipment and other in 2021 compared to 2020.

We estimate that our 2022 capital spending will range from $450 million to $500 million, which is expected to cover certain construction costs for our third micro mill and normal capital expenditures. We regularly assess our capital spending based on current and expected results.

Financing Activities

Net cash flows used by financing activities were $109.4 million and $247.8 million during 2021 and 2020, respectively. The $138.4 million reduction in net cash flows used by financing activities is a result of decreased net debt repayments, which were $32.5 million in 2021 and $187.3 million in 2020. Partially offsetting this reduction in net cash flows used by financing activities was $13.1 million of debt extinguishment costs related to early retirement of our 2026 Notes in 2021. See Note 8, Credit Arrangements, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report, for additional information regarding long-term debt transactions.

Contractual Obligations and Commitments

Our material cash commitments from known contractual and other obligations primarily consist of obligations for long-term debt and related interest, leases for properties and equipment and purchase obligations as part of normal operations. See Note 8, Credit Arrangements, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report, for more information regarding scheduled maturities of our long-term debt. See Note 7, Leases, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report for additional information on leases. Interest payable associated with our long-term debt was approximately $45.3 million due in the twelve months following August 31, 2021 and $200.0 million due thereafter. Additionally, the Company has a U.S. federal repatriation tax obligation resulting from the repatriation tax provisions of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (“TCJA”), of which $2.2 million was due in the twelve months following August 31, 2021 and $18.8 million is due thereafter.

As of August 31, 2021, our undiscounted purchase obligations were approximately $638.5 million due in the next twelve months and $228.0 million due thereafter under purchase orders and "take or pay" arrangements. These purchase obligations include all enforceable, legally binding agreements to purchase goods or services that specify all significant terms, regardless of the duration of the agreement, and exclude agreements with variable terms for which we are unable to estimate the minimum amounts. The "take or pay" arrangements are multi-year commitments with minimum annual purchase requirements and are entered into primarily for purchases of commodities used in operations such as electrodes and natural gas.

Of the purchase obligations due within the twelve months following August 31, 2021, approximately 25% were for consumable production inputs, such as ferroalloys, 25% were for the construction of our third micro mill, 21% were for commodities and 10% were for capital expenditures on existing operating machinery and equipment. Of the purchase obligations due thereafter, 65% are for commodities and 25% are for the construction of our third micro mill. The remainder of the purchase obligations were for goods and services in the normal course of business.

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We provide certain eligible employees benefits pursuant to our nonqualified Benefit Restoration Plan ("BRP") equal to amounts that would have been available under our tax qualified plans under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended ("ERISA"), but for limitations of ERISA, tax laws and regulations. We did not include estimated payments related to the BRP in the above description of contractual obligations and commitments. Refer to Note 14, Employees' Retirement Plans, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report, for more information on the BRP.

Other Commercial Commitments

We maintain stand-by letters of credit to provide support for certain transactions that governmental agencies, our insurance providers and suppliers require. At August 31, 2021, we had committed $27.6 million under these arrangements, of which $3.0 million reduced availability under the Credit Agreement (as defined in Note 8, Credit Arrangements, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report).

CONTINGENCIES

In the ordinary course of conducting our business, we become involved in litigation, administrative proceedings and governmental investigations, including environmental matters. We may incur settlements, fines, penalties or judgments because of some of these matters. Liabilities and costs associated with litigation-related loss contingencies require estimates and judgments based on our knowledge of the facts and circumstances surrounding each matter and the advice of our legal counsel. We record liabilities for litigation-related losses when a loss is probable and we can reasonably estimate the amount of the loss. We evaluate the measurement of recorded liabilities each reporting period based on the current facts and circumstances specific to each matter. The ultimate losses incurred upon final resolution of litigation-related loss contingencies may differ materially from the estimated liability recorded at a particular balance sheet date. Changes in estimates are recorded in earnings in the period in which such changes occur. We do not believe that any currently pending legal proceedings to which we are a party will have a material adverse effect, individually or in the aggregate, on our results of operations, cash flows or financial condition. See Note 17, Commitments and Contingencies, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report, for more information.

Environmental and Other Matters

The information set forth in Note 17, Commitments and Contingencies, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report is hereby incorporated by reference.

General

We are subject to federal, state and local pollution control laws and regulations in all locations where we have operating facilities. We anticipate that compliance with these laws and regulations will involve continuing capital expenditures and operating costs.

Metals recycling was our original business, and it has been one of our core businesses for over a century. In the present era of conservation of natural resources and ecological concerns, we are committed to sound ecological and business conduct. Certain governmental regulations regarding environmental concerns, however well-intentioned, may expose us and our industry to potentially significant risks. We believe that recycled materials are commodities that are diverted by recyclers, such as us, from the solid waste streams because of their inherent value. They are identified, purchased, sorted, processed and sold in accordance with carefully established industry specifications.

We incurred environmental expenses of $49.8 million, $46.6 million and $42.5 million for 2021, 2020 and 2019, respectively. The expenses included the cost of disposal, environmental personnel at various divisions, permit and license fees, accruals and payments for studies, tests, assessments, remediation, consultant fees, baghouse dust removal and various other expenses. In addition, during 2021, we spent $3.1 million in capital expenditures related to costs directly associated with environmental compliance. Our accrued environmental liabilities were $7.1 million and $3.4 million, of which $2.3 million and $2.7 million, respectively, were classified as other long-term liabilities, as of August 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively.

Solid and Hazardous Waste

We generate wastes, including hazardous wastes, that are subject to the Federal Resource Conservation and Recovery Act and comparable state and local statutes where we operate. These statutes, regulations and laws may limit our disposal options with respect to certain wastes.

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We currently own or lease, and in the past we have owned or leased, properties that have been used in our operations. Although we have used operating and disposal practices that were industry standard at the time, wastes may have been disposed of or released on or under the properties or on or under locations where such wastes have been taken for disposal in a manner that is now understood to pose a contamination threat. We are currently involved in the investigation and remediation of several such properties we have been named as a PRP at a number of contaminated sites, none of which involve real estate we ever owned or upon which we have ever conducted operations.

State and federal laws applicable to wastes and contaminated properties have gradually become more strict over time. There is no guarantee that the EPA or individual states will not adopt more stringent requirements for the handling of, or make changes to the exemptions upon which we rely for, the wastes that we generate. Similarly, some materials which are not currently classified as waste may be deemed solid or hazardous waste in the future. Under new laws, we could be required to remediate properties impacted by previously disposed wastes. Any such change could result in an increase in our costs to manage and dispose of waste which could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of our operations and financial condition.

Superfund

The EPA, or an equivalent state agency, has notified us that we are considered a PRP at several sites, none of which involve real estate we ever owned or upon which we have ever conducted operations. We may be obligated under CERCLA, or similar state statutes, to conduct remedial investigation, feasibility studies, remediation and/or removal of alleged releases of hazardous substances or to reimburse the EPA or third-parties for such activities and pay costs for associated damages to natural resources. We are involved in litigation or administrative proceedings with regard to several of these sites in which we are contesting, or at the appropriate time may contest, our liability. In addition, we have received information requests with regard to other sites which may be under consideration by the EPA as potential CERCLA sites. Because of various factors, including the ambiguity of the regulations, the difficulty of identifying the responsible parties for any particular site, the complexity of determining the relative liability among them, the uncertainty as to the most desirable remediation techniques and the amount of damages and cleanup costs, and the extended time periods over which such costs may be incurred, we cannot reasonably estimate our ultimate costs of compliance with CERCLA. Based on currently available information, which is in many cases preliminary and incomplete, we had $0.5 million and $0.7 million accrued as of August 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively, in connection with CERCLA sites. We have accrued for these liabilities based upon our best estimates. The amounts paid and the expenses incurred on these sites for 2021, 2020 and 2019 were not material. Historically, the amounts that we have ultimately paid for such remediation activities have not been material.

Management believes that adequate provisions have been made in the Company's consolidated financial statements for the potential impact of these contingencies, and that the outcomes of the suits and proceedings described above, and other miscellaneous litigation and proceedings now pending, will not have a material adverse effect on the business, results of operations or financial condition of the Company.

Clean Water Act

The Clean Water Act ("CWA") imposes restrictions and strict controls regarding the discharge of wastes into waters of the U.S., a term broadly defined, or into publicly owned treatment works. These controls have become more stringent over time, and it is probable that additional restrictions will be imposed in the future. Permits must generally be obtained to discharge pollutants into federal waters or into publicly owned treatment works and comparable permits may be required at the state level. The CWA and many state statutes provide for civil, criminal and administrative penalties for unauthorized discharges of pollutants. In addition, the EPA's regulations and comparable state statutes may require us to obtain permits to discharge storm water runoff. In the event of an unauthorized discharge or non-compliance with permit requirements, we may be liable for penalties, costs and injunctive relief.

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Clean Air Act

Our operations are subject to regulations at the federal, state and local level for the control of emissions from sources of air pollution. New and modified sources of air pollutants are often required to obtain permits prior to commencing construction, modification or operations. Major sources of air pollutants are subject to more stringent requirements, including the potential need for additional permits and to increase scrutiny in the context of enforcement. The EPA has been implementing its stationary emission control program through expanded enforcement of the New Source Review Program. Under this program, new or modified sources may be required to construct emission sources using what is referred to as the Best Available Control Technology, or in any areas that are not meeting NAAQS, using methods that satisfy requirements for the Lowest Achievable Emission Rate. Additionally, the EPA has implemented, and is continuing to implement, new, more stringent standards for NAAQS, including fine particulate matter. Compliance with new standards could require additional expenditures.

Climate Change

The potential impacts of climate change on the Company’s business and results of operations and potential future climate change regulations in the jurisdictions in which the Company operates are highly uncertain. See the risk factors entitled “Increased regulation associated with climate change could impose significant additional costs on both our steelmaking and metals recycling operations” and "Physical impacts of climate change could have a material adverse effect on our costs and operations" in Part I, Item 1A, "Risk Factors" of this Annual Report.

DIVIDENDS

We have paid quarterly cash dividends for 228 consecutive quarters. We paid quarterly dividends in 2021 and 2020 at the rate of $0.12 per share of CMC common stock, and our dividend for the fourth quarter of 2021 will be paid at $0.14 per share of CMC common stock.

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES

The preceding discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations is based upon our consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. The preparation of the consolidated financial statements requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenue and expenses and related disclosure of contingent liabilities. We evaluate the appropriateness of these estimates and assumptions, including those related to revenue recognition, income taxes, inventory cost, acquisitions, goodwill, long-lived assets and contingencies, on an ongoing basis. Estimates and assumptions are based on historical experience and on various other assumptions that we believe to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying value of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Accordingly, actual results in future periods could differ materially from these estimates. Judgments and estimates related to critical accounting policies used in the preparation of the consolidated financial statements include the following.

Revenue Recognition

Revenue from contracts where the Company provides fabricated rebar and installation services is recognized over time using an input method based on costs incurred compared to total estimated costs. Revenue from contracts where the Company does not provide installation services is recognized over time using an output method based on tons shipped compared to total estimated tons. Significant judgment is required to evaluate total estimated costs used in the input method and total estimated tons in the output method. If total estimated costs on any contract are greater than the net contract revenues, the Company recognizes the entire estimated loss in the period the loss becomes known. The cumulative effect of revisions to estimates related to net contract revenues, costs to complete or total planned quantity is recorded in the period in which such revisions are identified. The Company does not exercise significant judgment in determining the transaction price. See Note 4, Revenue Recognition, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report, for further details.

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Income Taxes

We periodically assess the likelihood of realizing our deferred tax assets and maintain a valuation allowance to reduce certain deferred tax assets to amounts that we believe are more likely than not to be realized. We base our judgment of the recoverability of our deferred tax assets primarily on historical earnings, our estimate of current and expected future earnings, prudent and feasible tax planning strategies and current and future ownership changes. At August 31, 2021 and 2020, we had a valuation allowance of $278.1 million and $281.8 million, respectively, against our deferred tax assets. Of these amounts, $7.7 million and $28.6 million at August 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively, relate to net operating loss and credit carryforwards in certain state jurisdictions that are subject to estimation. The remaining valuation allowance primarily relates to net operating loss carryforwards in certain foreign jurisdictions, which the Company does not expect to realize.

Inventory Cost

We state inventories at the lower of cost or net realizable value, which is defined as estimated selling prices in the ordinary course of business, less reasonably predictable costs of completion, disposal and transportation. Adjustments to inventory may be due to changes in price levels, obsolescence, damage, physical deterioration and other causes. Any adjustments required to reduce the carrying value of inventory to net realizable value are recorded as a charge to cost of goods sold. Based on our review of inventories, obsolete or slow-moving inventories are not significant as of August 31, 2021 and current market conditions are favorable in our end-use markets.

Acquisitions

The Company accounts for business combinations under the acquisition method of accounting, which requires assets acquired and liabilities assumed to be recorded at their estimated fair value at the date of acquisition. The fair value is estimated by the Company using valuation techniques and Level 3 inputs, including expected future cash flows and discount rates. The excess of purchase price over the fair value amounts assigned to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed, if any, is recorded as goodwill. Determining the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed involves the use of significant estimates and assumptions.

Goodwill

Goodwill is tested for impairment at the reporting unit level annually and whenever events or circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable. Our reporting units represent an operating segment or one level below an operating segment. We use an income and a market approach to calculate the fair value of our reporting units. To calculate the fair value of our reporting units using the income approach, management uses a discounted cash flow model which includes a number of significant assumptions and estimates regarding future cash flows such as discount rates, volumes, prices, capital expenditures and the impact of current market conditions. These estimates could be materially impacted by adverse changes in market conditions.

For 2021 and 2020, the annual goodwill impairment analysis did not result in any impairment charges. The Company has goodwill of $66.1 million, of which $51.1 million relates to a reporting unit within the North America operating segment. As of August 31, 2021, based on the results of the Company’s annual impairment testing, the fair value of this reporting unit exceeded its carrying value by 41%. An increase or decrease of 1% to the discount rate or terminal growth rate would not result in an impairment charge for this reporting unit. Management does not believe that it is reasonably likely that our reporting units will fail the goodwill impairment test in the near term, as the determined fair value of all reporting units with goodwill substantially exceeded their carrying value.

See Note 6, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report, for additional information.

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Long-Lived Assets

We evaluate the carrying value of property, plant and equipment and finite-lived intangible assets whenever a change in circumstances indicates that the net carrying value may not be recoverable from the undiscounted future cash flows from operations. Events or circumstances that could trigger an impairment review of a long-lived asset or asset group include, but are not limited to: (i) a significant decrease in the market price of the asset, (ii) a significant adverse change in the extent or manner that the asset is used or in its physical condition, (iii) a significant adverse change in legal factors or in the business climate that could affect the value of the asset, (iv) an accumulation of costs significantly in excess of original expectation for the acquisition or construction of the asset, (v) a current period operating or cash flow loss combined with a history of operating or cash flow losses or a forecast of continuing losses associated with the use of the asset and (vi) a more-likely-than-not expectation that the asset will be sold or disposed of significantly before the end of its previously estimated useful life. If an impairment exists, the net carrying values are reduced to fair values. Our operations are capital intensive. The estimates of undiscounted future cash flows used during an impairment review of a long-lived asset or asset group require judgments and assumptions of future cash flows that are expected to arise as a direct result of the use and eventual disposition of the asset or asset group. If these assets were for sale, our estimates of their values could be significantly different because of market conditions, specific transaction terms and a buyer's perspective on future cash flows. For the long-lived asset groups that were tested for recoverability as a result of current period operating or cash flow loss combined with a history of operating or cash flow losses, the undiscounted cash flows would require a decrease of at least 24% to result in an impairment.

Contingencies

In the ordinary course of conducting our business, we become involved in litigation, administrative proceedings and governmental investigations, including environmental matters. We may incur settlements, fines, penalties or judgments in connection with some of these matters. While we are unable to estimate the ultimate dollar amount of exposure or loss in connection with these matters, we make accruals when a loss is probable and the amount can be reasonably estimated. The amounts we accrue could vary substantially from amounts we pay due to several factors including the following: evolving remediation technology, changing regulations, possible third-party contributions, the inherent uncertainties of the estimation process and the uncertainties involved in litigation. We believe that we have adequately provided for these contingencies in our consolidated financial statements. We also believe that the outcomes will not materially affect our results of operations, our financial position or our cash flows.

Other Accounting Policies and New Accounting Pronouncements

See Note 1, Nature of Operations and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, in Part II, Item 8 of this Annual Report.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This Annual Report contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the federal securities laws with respect to general economic conditions, key macro-economic drivers that impact our business, the effects of ongoing trade actions, the effects of continued pressure on the liquidity of our customers, potential synergies and organic growth provided by acquisitions and strategic investments, demand for our products, metal margins, the effect of COVID-19 and related governmental and economic responses thereto, the ability to operate our steel mills at full capacity, future availability and cost of supplies of raw materials and energy for our operations, share repurchases, legal proceedings, the undistributed earnings of our non-U.S. subsidiaries, U.S. non-residential construction activity, international trade, capital expenditures, our liquidity and our ability to satisfy future liquidity requirements, estimated contractual obligations and our expectations or beliefs concerning future events. The statements in this report that are not historical statements, are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements can generally be identified by phrases such as we or our management "expects," "anticipates," "believes," "estimates," "future," "intends," "may," "plans to," "ought," "could," "will," "should," "likely," "appears," "projects," "forecasts," "outlook" or other similar words or phrases, as well as by discussions of strategy, plans, or intentions.

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Our forward-looking statements are based on management's expectations and beliefs as of the time this Annual Report is filed with the SEC or, with respect to any document incorporated by reference, as of the time such document was prepared. Although we believe that our expectations are reasonable, we can give no assurance that these expectations will prove to have been correct, and actual results may vary materially. Except as required by law, we undertake no obligation to update, amend or clarify any forward-looking statements to reflect changed assumptions, the occurrence of anticipated or unanticipated events, new information or circumstances or any other changes. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from our expectations include those described in Part I, Item 1A, "Risk Factors" of this Annual Report as well as the following:

•changes in economic conditions which affect demand for our products or construction activity generally, and the impact of such changes on the highly cyclical steel industry;

•rapid and significant changes in the price of metals, potentially impairing our inventory values due to declines in commodity prices or reducing the profitability of our downstream contracts due to rising commodity pricing;

•impacts from COVID-19 on the economy, demand for our products, global supply chain and on our operations, including the responses of governmental authorities to contain COVID-19 and the impact of various COVID-19 vaccines;

•excess capacity in our industry, particularly in China, and product availability from competing steel mills and other steel suppliers including import quantities and pricing;

•compliance with and changes in existing and future laws, regulations and other legal requirements and judicial decisions that govern our business, including increased environmental regulations associated with climate change and greenhouse gas emissions;

•involvement in various environmental matters that may result in fines, penalties or judgments;

•potential limitations in our or our customers' abilities to access credit and non-compliance by our customers;

•activity in repurchasing shares of our common stock under our repurchase program;

•financial covenants and restrictions on the operation of our business contained in agreements governing our debt;

•our inability to close the sale of our Rancho Cucamonga property, including if the buyer were to terminate the purchase agreement during its 60 day due diligence review period;

•our ability to successfully identify, consummate and integrate acquisitions, and the effects that acquisitions may have on our financial leverage;

•risks associated with acquisitions generally, such as the inability to obtain, or delays in obtaining, required approvals under applicable antitrust legislation and other regulatory and third party consents and approvals;

•operating and startup risks, as well as market risks associated with the commissioning of new projects could prevent us from realizing anticipated benefits and could result in a loss of all or a substantial part of our investments;

•lower than expected future levels of revenues and higher than expected future costs;

•failure or inability to implement growth strategies in a timely manner;

•impact of goodwill impairment charges;

•impact of long-lived asset impairment charges;

•currency fluctuations;

•global factors, such as trade measures, military conflicts and political uncertainties, including the impact of the Biden administration on current trade regulations, such as Section 232 trade tariffs and quotas, tax legislation and other regulations which might adversely impact our business;

•availability and pricing of electricity, electrodes and natural gas for mill operations;

•ability to hire and retain key executives and other employees;

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•competition from other materials or from competitors that have a lower cost structure or access to greater financial resources;

•information technology interruptions and breaches in security;

•ability to make necessary capital expenditures;

•availability and pricing of raw materials and other items over which we exert little influence, including scrap metal, energy and insurance;

•unexpected equipment failures;

•losses or limited potential gains due to hedging transactions;

•litigation claims and settlements, court decisions, regulatory rulings and legal compliance risks;

•risk of injury or death to employees, customers or other visitors to our operations; and

•civil unrest, protests and riots.

You should refer to the "Risk Factors" disclosed in our periodic and current reports filed with the SEC for information regarding additional risks which would cause actual results to be significantly different from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other important factors that could cause actual results, performance or our achievements, or industry results, to differ materially from historical results, any future results, or performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Accordingly, readers of this Annual Report are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements.